WATERS NEAR OKINAWA –
Rear Adm. Isao Ooseto, commander, Fleet Air Wing
5, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), and other Okinawa-area guests came aboard the U.S. Navy's forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) for a distinguished visitor (DV) embark, June 9.
DV embarks help to enhance cooperation and interoperability with U.S. allies by showcasing the ship's capabilities.
"Tours like these help our allies understand how we operate so we can better integrate our forces," said Col. Charles McDaniel, vice commander, 18th Wing, U.S. Air Force.
The visitors were provided a four-hour tour to witness the hard working crew, technologies on board, and flight operations.
"I am glad to have everyone aboard today," said Capt. Greg Fenton, commanding officer of George Washington. "These visits allow our allies to view the operations of the ship first hand and see what an aircraft carrier can do."
The distinguished guests had gained an appreciation and offered insight to the abilities of ship's normal day-to-day operations.
"This was the first time I've been to an aircraft carrier," said Toshihisa Takata, ambassador in charge of Okinawan affairs, Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. "I was amazed at the Sailors' skills have to do their jobs, and how it all came together to accomplish their mission."
George Washington and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing 5, provide a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.