"Big E" Deploys

The Enterprise Carrier Strike group (CSG) transit the Atlantic Ocean in formation. The Enterprise CSG and embarked Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1) are currently underway on a scheduled six-month deployment in support of the global war on terrorism. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Joshua Kinter

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class James H. Green, USS Enterprise Public Affairs

The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 departed Naval Station Norfolk for a regularly scheduled deployment July 7 in support of the global war on terrorism.

This is Enterprise’s second deployment within the past 14 months. Big E returned from its most recent deployment Nov. 18. Enterprise is the flagship for Carrier Strike Group 12, which include the guided-missile destroyers USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98), USS James E. Williams (DDG 95), USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) and USS Stout (DDG 55); the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64); and the fast-attack submarine USS Philadelphia (SSN 690) all based in Norfolk, and also the fast combat support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE 6) based in Earle, N.J. There are nearly 7,500 Sailors and Marines in the strike group.

Months after their November homecoming, Big E Sailors kept busy with a rigorous training schedule which included numerous carrier qualifications as well as a Board and Inspection Survey in April. Enterprise also hosted Commander, Fleet Forces change of command ceremony as well as its own change of command ceremony May 18.

“This has been a very eventful year so far for our crew,” said Capt. Ron Horton, Enterprise commanding officer. “Big E Sailors have been focused on maintaining combat readiness since the ship returned in November. In between all the training however, we were able to spend some valuable time at home with our families and friends. Now it’s time to answer our nation’s call again. There is no doubt in my mind that this crew will perform with honor, courage and commitment as it did last year. I’m very proud to be serving with this crew, at this time, to represent this country.”

In addition to being the flagship of the strike group, Enterprise is also home to CVW 1. The air wing is comprised of the “Checkmates” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211 flying the F/A-18 Super Hornet and the “Knighthawks” of VFA-136; the “Sidewinders” of VFA-86; the “Thunderbolts” of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251 all flying the F/A-18 Hornet. Also joining CVW 1 are the “Dragonslayers” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 11 flying the SH-60 Seahawk; the “Rooks” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 137 flying the EA-6B Prowler; the “Screwtops” of VAW-123 flying the E-2C Hawkeye; the “Maulers” of Sea Control Squadron (VS) 32 flying the S-3B Viking; and the “Rawhides” of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40 flying the C-2A Greyhound.