On Feb. 6, 2024, the USS Theodore Roosevelt arrived on Guam’s shores, bringing about 5,000 sailors to our island. The great naval warship is embarked with Carrier Strike Group 9 (CSG 9) and Carrier Air Wing 11.
The CSG includes Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG-70) and Arleigh Burke-class destroyers USS Halsey (DDG-97), USS John S. McCain (DDG-56) and USS Daniel Inouye (DDG-118).
A day after the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier docked at Naval Base Guam, members of the 37th Guam Legislature and representatives from the local business community were invited to tour the ship and witness firsthand the extraordinary capabilities of our naval forces and the dedication of the brave men and women who serve our country aboard this formidable vessel.
Last Wednesday afternoon, I, my legislative colleagues, and local business leaders, climbed aboard the massive ship and entered the world of the military forces that safeguard our country at sea. Aptly named after the 26th president of the United States, the USS Theodore Roosevelt is a symbol of our nation’s strength, pride and naval supremacy.
We previewed the logistics behind aircraft takeoffs and landings, marveled at the state-of-the-art technology powering the entire ship, and experienced the day-to-day operations for those who defend our nation’s interest at sea. As we navigated the large aircraft carrier, I was reminded of the values that define us as a nation — the commitment to defending freedom, upholding democracy, ensuring human rights, and promoting peace.
I was honored to meet the men and women responsible for operating the ship and ensuring precision and preparation is enforced in the naval vessel. The next day, I had the opportunity to meet more of the aircraft personnel at the Tamuning-Tumon-Harmon Mayor’s Office where they were volunteering at the senior citizens lunch.
The involvement of the armed servicemen and engagement of the military in our island community is another testament to the great relationship Guam has with the United States.
Ultimately, the presence of such a great vessel should be comforting to the people of Guam. In these times of uncertainty, and with various threats looming on the horizon, the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt stands as a beacon of hope, strength, and unity.
The arrival of the vessel on our shores emphasizes the significance of our island to the national security and strategic interest of the United States. As I toured the ship, I was proud to know that eight people from our island are currently serving on the aircraft carrier and are a part of the U.S. armed forces, like many of the sons and daughters of Guam who choose to serve our country in the military.
I support our armed forces and I encourage our residents to join me in welcoming the men and women of the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt with the Håfa Adai spirit and show them the warmth of our CHamoru culture and beauty of our island.
I thank Rear Admiral Gregory C. Huffman, Lieutenant Commander Ben Anderson, Ensign (ENS) Molly Workman, ENS Angelique Therrien, Chief Kyle Steck, and the other servicemen for providing us with a detailed presentation on the history and operations of the U.S. Naval Warship.
I also thank Joint Region Marianas for coordinating the tour with the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt and allowing us this great opportunity to experience being on such a ship and meet some of the dedicated men and women that protect our nation at sea.
Sen. Jesse Lujan is a member of the 37th Legislature.
Source: Pacific Daily News