The Atlantic Ocean, Sep. 12, 2001 — An E-2C Hawkeye attached to Carrier Airborne Early Squadron One Two Five (VAW-125) launches from the flight deck of USS George Washington (CVN-73). The Norfolk, Va.-based aircraft carrier was patrolling the coastline off New York City, providing air defenses for the city while waiting for additional tasking from the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class James Virdrine (# 010912-N-7340V-001).

The Atlantic Ocean, Sep. 15, 2001 — An Aviation Boatswain's Mate directs an F/A-18 Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron Three Four (VFA-34) into launching position on the flight deck of USS George Washington (CVN-73). The carrier was providing air defense to New York City while awaiting tasking from the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) in the aftermath of the World Trade Center and Pentagon terrorist attacks. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Corey Lewis (# 010915-N-2147L-002).

The Atlantic Ocean, Nov. 4, 2001 — USS George Washington (CVN-73) makes a speed run in the Atlantic Ocean while conducting carrier qualifications. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Heather Hess (# 011104-N-6747H-002).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) departs Souda Harbor, 8 July 2002, following a four-day port visit to the Hellenic island of Crete. The aircraft carrier was on a scheduled deployment conducting missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. U.S. Navy photo by Paul Farley (#020708-N-0780F-001).

Operation Enduring Freedom, Aug. 25, 2002 — USS George Washington transits the Arabian Sea during a break in flight operations. The ship and her embarked Carrier Air Wing Seventeen (CVW-17) were on a six-month deployment conducting combat missions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. U.S. Navy photo by Capt. Dana Potts. [020825-N-1955P-001].

The Atlantic Ocean, Sep. 11, 2003 — USS George Washington (CVN-73) conducts a replenishment at sea with USNS Kanawha (T-AO 196) in the Atlantic Ocean. The Norfolk, Va.-based nuclear-powered aircraft carrier was conducting carrier qualifications in the Atlantic Ocean. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Joan Kretschmer (# 030911-N-6278K-002).

Atlantic Ocean, Nov. 30, 2003 — USS George Washington (CVN-73) Carrier Strike Group formation sails in the Atlantic Ocean, while conducting Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) in preparation for their upcoming deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Summer M. Anderson. [031130-N-3653A-002].

Atlantic Ocean, Nov. 30, 2003 — USS George Washington (CVN-73) sails off the coast of Florida. The Norfolk, Va.-based nuclear powered aircraft carrier was conducting Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) in preparation for deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate Airman Joan Kretschmer. [031130-N-6278K-001].

Atlantic Ocean, Dec. 9, 2003 — The Norfolk, Va. based nuclear powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) underway while conducting Composite Training Unit Exercises (COMPTUEX) in preparation for an upcoming six-month deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 1st Class Brien Aho. [031209-N-5319A-002].

Atlantic Ocean, Dec. 10, 2003 — An F-14B Tomcat, from Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7), launches off the flight deck aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73) while the Military Sealift Command (MSC) ship USNS Supply (T-AOE 6) steams alongside during a replenishment at sea. The Norfolk, Va.-based nuclear powered aircraft carrier was conducting a Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) in preparation for a six-month deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate 2nd Class Summer M. Anderson. [031210-N-3653A-003].

Jan. 20, 2004 — USS George Washington (CVN-73) sails past the Chesapeake Bay Bridge tunnel into the Atlantic Ocean to start her sixth overseas deployment. The Nimitz-class nuclear powered aircraft carrier was scheduled to relieve USS Enterprise (CVN-65). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate Airman Joan Kretschmer. [040120-N-6278K-001].

Mediterranean Sea, Feb. 6, 2004 — USS George Washington (CVN-73) enters Souda Bay, Crete, Greece for a port call. The Norfolk, Va.-based nuclear powered aircraft carrier was on a scheduled deployment. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Summer M. Anderson. [040206-N-3653A-001].

Persian Gulf, Mar. 24, 2004 — An F-14B Tomcat assigned to the "Red Rippers" of Fighter Squadron One One (VF-11) prepares to make an arrested landing on the flight deck aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73). The Norfolk, Va.-based nuclear powered aircraft carrier was on a scheduled deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer’s Mate Airman Joan Kretschmer. [040324-N-6278K-139].

Persian Gulf, Apr. 22, 2004 — An F-14B Tomcat launches off one of two steam-powered catapults on the waist aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73). The Norfolk, Va. based aircraft carrier and embarked Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7) were on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Summer M. Anderson (040422-N-3653A-050).

Persian Gulf, June 3, 2004 — The guided missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG-72), top, and the guided-missile destroyer USS Bulkeley (DDG-84), bottom, steam alongside USS George Washington (CVN-73) while participating in a strike group photo, during operations in the Persian Gulf. The Norfolk, Va.-based ships were on a scheduled deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 1st Class Brien Aho (040603-N-5319A-009).

Persian Gulf, June 3, 2004 — Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7) embarked aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73) are parked in formation on the flight deck during a strike group photo while operating in the Persian Gulf. The Norfolk, Va. based aircraft carrier was on a scheduled deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 1st Class Brien Aho (040603-N-5319A-012).

The Halifax-class frigate Her Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Toronto (FFH-333) cruises ahead of USS George Washington (CVN-73) during a strike group photo formation while operating in the Arabian Gulf, 3 June 2004. Toronto joined the Norfolk, Va.-based aircraft carrier on a scheduled deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 1st Class Brien Aho (# 040603-N-5319A-014).

USS George Washington (CVN-73), center, and (counterclockwise from right) guided missile destroyer USS Bulkeley (DDG-84), Military Sealift Command (MSC) Supply-class fast attack support ship USNS Supply (T-AOE 6), cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG-72), and Halifax-class frigate Her Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Toronto (FFH-333) participate in a strike group photo while operating in the Arabian Gulf, 3 June 2004. The Norfolk, Va.-based aircraft carrier was on a scheduled deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 1st Class Brien Aho (# 040603-N-5319A-008).

Persian Gulf, June 26, 2004 — An F-14B Tomcat assigned to Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7) launches from the flight deck aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Summer Anderson. [040626-N-3653A-010].

Naval Station Norfolk, Va., August 27, 2004 — A UH-3H Sea King helicopter assigned to the Search and Rescue (SAR) unit at Naval Air Station Oceana, Va., flies over the aircraft carriers moored at Naval Station Norfolk, Va.; left to right, USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75), USS George Washington (CVN-73), and USS Enterprise (CVN-65). U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 1st Class Anthony M. Koch (# 040827-N-4459K-002).

The Atlantic Ocean, Sep. 13, 2004 — USS George Washington (CVN-73) and USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) conduct an ammunition transfer between ships. George Washington was participating in carrier qualifications off the East Coast of the United States. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Ryan T. O'Connor (# 040913-N-4308O-012).

Newport News, Va., Jan. 28, 2005 — USS George Washington (CVN-73) arrived at the Newport News shipyard on Jan. 28 for a 10.5-month maintenance availability, which would include dry-docking for approximately seven months. Work would include repair and refurbishment of the hull, sea chests, shafting, propellers and rudders; blasting and coating of numerous tanks; modernization of spaces to support the F/A-18 Super Hornet aircraft equipment and weapons stowage systems; enhancements to crew living areas; scheduled maintenance on propulsion plant systems and repair and inspections on a variety of ship systems.

Newport News, Va., Sep. 1, 2005 — Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) completed the seven-month dry dock portion of work for USS George Washington (CVN-73) maintenance availability. The carrier was moved by tugboats to a shipyard pier on Aug. 31, where she would remain for approximately three months undergoing final work completion and testing. George Washington arrived at Northrop Grumman's Newport News shipyard on Jan. 28 for the 10.5-month maintenance availability.

Newport News, VA, Dec. 15, 2005 — USS George Washington (CVN-73) leaves Northrop Grumman Newport News shipyard to conduct sea trials in the Atlantic Ocean. Carrier sea trials would help determine the ship's material readiness and ability to rejoin the fleet as a fully operational unit. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Michael D. Blackwell (# 051215-N-1045B-134).

Hampton Roads, VA, Dec. 17, 2005 — After completing sea trials, USS George Washington (CVN-73) returns to her homeport in Norfolk, VA. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier had just completed a 10.5-month Docked Planned Incremental Availability at the Northrop Grumman Newport News shipyard. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Michael D. Blackwell (# 051217-N-1045B-025).

Atlantic Ocean, Feb. 6, 2006 — Ammunition is transferred from the flight deck to the ship's hangar bay during ammunition on load operations aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73). The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was conducting carrier qualifications and shipboard training. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Rex Nelson (# 060206-N-6433N-045).

Atlantic Ocean, Apr. 10, 2006 — An E-2C Hawkeye assigned to the "Bluetails" of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron One Two One (VAW-121) launches from the flight deck aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73). The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier and her Strike Group were participating in Partnership of the Americas, a maritime training and readiness deployment of the U.S. Naval Forces with Caribbean and Latin American countries in support of U.S. Southern Command's (SOUTHCOM) objectives for enhanced maritime security. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Christopher Stephens (# 060410-N-9621S-005).

Caribbean Sea, May 11, 2006 — Armada de la República de Colombia (ARC) missile frigates Caldas (FM-52) and Antioquia (FM-53); guided missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG-61); guided missile frigate USS Underwood (FFG-36); and the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) conduct a Group Sail Exercise. The George Washington Carrier Strike Group was participating in Partnership of the Americas, a maritime training and readiness deployment of the U.S. Naval forces with Caribbean and Latin American countries in support of U.S. Southern Command's (SOUTHCOM) objectives for enhanced maritime security. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 3rd Class Michael D. Blackwell II (# 060511-N-1045B-025).

Sailors participate in 9mm pistol qualifications aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73), in the Atlantic Ocean, 22 July 2006. Then based at Norfolk, Va., the nuclear-powered Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was underway conducting carrier qualifications. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist Seaman Tanner Lange (# 060722-N-4015L-013).

Portsmouth, VA, Sep. 28, 2006 — USS George Washington (CVN-73) transits from a wet slip into drydock at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. The Norfolk-based, Nimitz-class aircraft carrier would undergo a Docked Planned Incremental Availability at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jennifer Apsey (# 060928-N-8403A-044).

Portsmouth, VA, Nov. 10, 2006 — A Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) crane removes the main mast from the island structure of USS George Washington (CVN-73). The Norfolk-based Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was undergoing a $300 million shipyard availability at NNSY. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jennifer Apsey (# 061110-N-8403A-015).

Portsmouth, VA, Apr. 25, 2007 — As line handlers keep USS George Washington (CVN-73) centered in the dry dock, tugboats assist the carrier move from dry dock to wet slip. The Norfolk-based Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was undergoing Planned Incremental Availability and Docking (PIA+D). The availability would prepare George Washington to relieve USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) as the fleet's forward deployed carrier in 2008. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Peter D. Blair (# 070425-N-5188B-012).

Norfolk, VA, Aug. 30, 2007 — USS George Washington (CVN-73) moves into Naval Station Norfolk after completing sea trials. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier returned to Naval Station Norfolk after four days of sea trials in the Atlantic Ocean and completing an 11-month, $300 million planned incremental availability. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Jon Dasbach (# 070830-N-6854D-008).

An F/A-18E Super Hornet, assigned to the "Pukin' Dogs" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, launches off the flight deck of USS George Washington (CVN-73), 18 September 2007. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was undergoing carrier qualifications and flight deck certification in the Atlantic Ocean, in preparation for a homeport change to Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Phillip Pavlovich (# 070918-N-7282P-024).

Norfolk, Va., October 14, 2007 — Right to left: USS George Washington (CVN-73), USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), and USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75).

Atlantic Ocean, March 3, 2008 — A NATO E-3A Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft flies over USS George Washington (CVN‑73). The aircraft carrier was participating in Tailored Ships Training Availability and Final Evaluation Problem (TSTA/FEP) before being forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan. The AWACS is used to provide airborne battle management, surveillance, and weapons control. This was the first time that an AWACS had done a low-approach fly-by over a U.S. naval vessel. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication 2nd Class Specialist Clifford L. H. Davis (# 080303-N-9565D-044).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) departed Naval Station Norfolk for the last time 7 April 2008, bound for her new homeport of Yokosuka, Japan, where she would replace USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) as the only forward-deployed aircraft carrier.

NS027381: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clifford L.H. Davis (# 080407-N-9565D-020).

NS027381a: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clifford L.H. Davis (# 080407-N-9565D-068).

NS027381b: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph R. Wax (# 080407-N-2570W-307).

The guided-missile frigate USS Kauffman (FFG-59) steams alongside USS George Washington (CVN-73) during a refueling at sea in the Pacific Ocean, 18 April 2008. The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier departed Norfolk en route to Yokosuka, Japan, where she would replace the conventionally-powered USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) as the U.S. Navy's only forward-deployed aircraft carrier. U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Ian Schoeneberg (# 080418-N-7047S-001).

An F/A-18 Hornet from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 performs an airspeed maneuver over USS George Washington (CVN-73) as crew members and distinguished visitors watch from the flight deck, 20 April 2008, in the Atlantic Ocean. The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier was en route to Yokosuka, Japan, where she would replace the conventionally-powered USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63). US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clifford L.H. Davis (# 080420-N-9565D-026).

Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 perform a fly-by maneuver over USS George Washington (CVN-73) as crew members and distinguished visitors watch from the flight deck, 20 April 2008, in the Atlantic Ocean. US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clifford L.H. Davis (# 080420-N-9565D-069).

A Sailor directs a C-2A Greyhound assigned to Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40 aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73), 29 April 2008, in the Atlantic Ocean. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was participating in Partnership of the Americas (POA) 2008, a multinational exercise designed to enhance regional security and interoperability with maritime partners. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ian Schoeneberg (#080429-N-7047S-006).

Aircrew Survival Equipmentman 3rd Class Brian Burrell, assigned to the "Bluetails" of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, carries two liquid oxygen containers aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73) for C-2A Greyhound pilots, 30 April 2008. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was in the Atlantic Ocean, participating in Partnership of the Americas (POA) 2008, a multinational exercise designed to enhance regional security and interoperability with maritime partners. US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ian Schoeneberg (# 080430-N-7047S-033).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) steams in the Pacific as the sun breaks over the horizon, 6 May 2008. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was participating in Partnership of the Americas (POA) 2008. US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clifford L. H. Davis (# 080506-N-9565D-030).

RADM Philip Hart Cullom, commander of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group (left), Ambassador to Chile Paul Simons, and Admiral Don Rodolfo Codina Díaz, Chilean Chief of Naval Operations, participate in a ceremonial cake cutting during a reception in the hangar bay of USS George Washington (CVN-73), Valparaíso, Chile, 15 May 2008. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was supporting Partnership of the Americas to implement the U.S. Maritime Strategy to cooperate with South American maritime partners promoting interoperability and trust that will ultimately lead to greater hemispheric security. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joshua A. Olson (# 080515-N-6236O-038).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) docked at Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, Calif., 7 June 2008, on her way to Pearl Harbor and subsequently Yokosuka, Japan, to replace USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63). Photo taken from the deck of the USS Midway Museum.

USS George Washington (CVN-73) docked at Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, Calif., 9 August 2008.

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) ADM Gary Roughead answers questions from sailors in the hangar bay of USS George Washington (CVN-73) during an all-hands call, 19 August 2008. Roughead visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier before her departure from San Diego after completing repairs sustained in an at-sea fire in late May. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Derek J. Hurder (# 080819-N-7446H-002).

A Sailor assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) stands at parade rest as USS George Washington (CVN-73) departs Naval Air Station North Island, 21 August 2008. George Washington replaced Kitty Hawk as the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed carrier operating from Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alexia M. Riveracorrea (#080821-N-7029R-028).

Ending her 10-plus-year service as the Navy's only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), far right, remains moored to the pier as tugboats assist George Washington (CVN-73) depart Naval Air Station North Island, 21 August 2008. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Alexia M. Riveracorrea (#080821-N-7029R-045).

The crew of USS George Washington (CVN-73) mans the rails as the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier departs Naval Air Station North Island, 21 August 2008. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephanie Tigner (#080821-N-4163T-001).

Sailors man the rails of USS George Washington (CVN-73) as she departs Naval Air Station North Island, 21 August 2008. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephanie Tigner (#080821-N-4163T-002).

An U.S. Coast Guard helicopter escorts USS George Washington (CVN-73) as she departs Naval Air Station North Island, 21 August 2008. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kim McLendon (#080821-N-3446M-660).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) heads out to sea after departing Naval Air Station North Island, 21 August 2008. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephanie Tigner (#080821-N-4163T-004).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) transits the Pacific Ocean during carrier flight qualifications, 28 August 2008. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was transiting the coast of Southern California conducting her combat operations efficiency evaluation with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5. George Washington was en route to Yokosuka, Japan, where she would replace USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) as the Navy's only forward deployed aircraft carrier. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist Second Class Clifford L. H. Davis (#080828-N-9565D-061).

As USS George Washington (CVN-73) transits through the Pacific, 28 August 2008, flight deck crews from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 ready the aircraft to continue carrier flight qualifications. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was sailing off the coast of Southern California where the crew was working on her Combat Operations Efficiency evaluation with CVW-5. George Washington was en route to Yokosuka, Japan, where the ship would replace USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63) as the Navy's only forward deployed aircraft carrier. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist Second Class Clifford L. H. Davis (# 080828-N-9565D-038).

Sailors aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73) form the phrase "Hajimemashite," which means "Nice to meet you" in Japanese, as they arrive at Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, 25 September 2008. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5 would be operating from Fleet Activities Yokosuka as the U.S. Navy's only forward-deployed carrier. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clifford L. H. Davis (# 080925-N-9565D-001).

After completing a four-day port visit in Guam, USS George Washington (CVN-73) heads to sea for training operations in the Pacific Ocean, 4 November 2008.

U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clifford L.H. Davis.

NS0273bg: USN photo # 081104-N-9565D-058.

USS George Washington (CVN-73) breaks away from formation at the conclusion of a PhotoEx on the last day of ANNUALEX 21G off the coast of Okinawa, 17 November 2009.

Photos taken by one of HS-14 aircrewmen, who was right beside an MC1 who was taking the official pictures for the PhotoEx.

Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron (HS) 14 "Chargers" was aboard George Washington with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5.

Japanese landing ship JS Shimokita (LST-4002), air-defense destroyer JS Hatakaze (DDG-171), and an MSC-operated Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet oiler are also visible.

An SH-60F Seahawk helicopter (BuNo 164078, modex NF620) from the "Chargers" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 14 flies over the Seawolf-class attack submarine USS Connecticut (SSN-22) in the Pacific Ocean, 17 November 2009. Ships from the U.S. Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force were participating in Annual Exercise ANNUALEX 21G, a bilateral exercise designed to enhance the capabilities of both naval forces.

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class John M. Hageman (# 091117-N-1644H-117).

The Seawolf-class attack submarine USS Connecticut (SSN-22) underway in the Pacific Ocean, 17 November 2009, with an SH-60F Seahawk helicopter from the "Chargers" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 14. In the background are USS George Washington (CVN-73) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter destroyer JS Hyuga (DDH181). (See above.)

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class John M. Hageman (# 091117-N-1644H-162).

U.S. Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ships transit in formation behind the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter destroyer JS Hyuga (DDH-181). Pacific Ocean, 17 November 2009. (See above.)

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Rachel N. Hatch (# 091117-N-6233H-226).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) transits the Pacific Ocean, 18 November 2009, while an SH-60B Seahawk helicopter assigned to the "Warlords" of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 51 Det. 3 conducts flight operations in the background. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, the Navy's only permanently forward-deployed aircraft carrier, was underway supporting security and stability in the Western Pacific Ocean.

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Charles Oki (# 091118-N-2013O-467).

Sailors man the rails aboard USS George Washington (CVN-73) as the aircraft carrier pulls into port, Yokosuka, Japan, 3 July 2010, after a three-week underway period, on time to celebrate the 18th anniversary of her commissioning on Independence Day. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Adam K. Thomas (#100703-N-6720T-001).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) and the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Carl Brashear (T-AKE 7) conduct a replenishment at sea, west of Korean Peninsula, 2 December 2010. The aircraft carrier had recently completed a training exercise with the Republic of Korea Navy. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Charles Oki (# 101202-N-2013O-224).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) transits the East China Sea, 6 December 2010. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was participating in Keen Sword 2010 with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force through 10 December. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Casey H. Kyhl (# 101206-N-5538K-395).

Tugboats assist USS George Washington (CVN-73) pull out of Busan, Republic of Korea after a port visit, 3 October 2011. George Washington is the Navy's only full-time forward-deployed aircraft carrier and was on a scheduled patrol. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Erin Devenberg (# 111003-N-DP652-099).

USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199) during an underway replenishment with USS George Washington (CVN-73) in the Philippine Sea, 18 July 2012. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, forward deployed to Yokosuka, Japan, was underway in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area Of Responsibility. US Navy photo by MC3 Paul Kelly (# 120718-N-TX154-345).

The forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) steams through calm seas near Guam at sunset, 8 September 2012. The Nimitz-class carrier was the centerpiece of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5, the US Navy's only continuously forward deployed CSG, based out of Yokosuka, Japan. CSG 5 was on a routine Western Pacific patrol. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Paul Kelly (# 120908-N-TX154-095).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) underway, 13 October 2012, with the Royal Malaysian Navy frigates RMN Jebat (FFG29) and RMN Lekiu (FFG30) during a transit of the Andaman Sea. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier and her embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 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 Asia-Pacific region. The U.S. Navy is constantly deployed to preserve peace, protect commerce, and deter aggression through forward presence. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jennifer A. Villalovos (# 121013-N-WW409-560).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) and the guided-missile frigate USS Vandegrift (FFG-48), bottom, underway beside the Royal Malaysian Navy frigates RMN Jebat (FFG29) and RMN Lekiu (FFG30) in the Andaman Sea, 13 October 2012. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jennifer A. Villalovos (# 121013-N-WW409-369).

USS George Washington (CVN-73), left, steams alongside the Philippine navy frigate BRP Gregorio del Pilar (PF-15) in support of Operation Damayan, in the Philippine Sea, 17 November 2013. The George Washington Strike Group, in coordination with the 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade was assisting the Philippine government in ongoing relief efforts in response to the aftermath of Super Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda in the Republic of the Philippines. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Peter Burghart (# 131117-N-XN177-121).

Sailors man the rails on the flight deck of USS George Washington (CVN-73) as the ship returns to Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, 5 December 2013, following her 2013 patrol. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier and her embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 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. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ramon G. Go (# 131205-N-GC965-142).

An E-2C Hawkeye from the "Liberty Bells" of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 115 launches from the flight deck of the U.S. Navy's forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) as part of Valiant Shield, 19 September 2014, in the Pacific Ocean. The U.S.-only exercise integrated 18,000 Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps personnel, more than 200 aircraft and 19 surface ships with real-world joint operational experience. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Chris Cavagnaro (# 140919-N-IP531-015).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) underway near the island of Iwo To, formerly known as Iwo Jima, 7 September 2014. The George Washington Carrier Strike Group was on patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area Of Responsibility supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Trevor Welsh (# 140907-N-ZS026-504).

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuel) 3rd Class Eric Brown moves his belongings from USS George Washington (CVN-73) to USS Ronald Reagan (CVN‑76), 11 August 2015. Both aircraft carriers were pierside at San Diego, California. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ryan McFarlane (# 150811-N-IN729-035).

The Nimitz-class aircraft carriers USS George Washington (CVN-73), left, and USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) pierside at Naval Air Station North Island while conducting a hull-swap, 18 August 2015. The force structure change allowed George Washington to undergo her mid-life refueling complex overhaul and Ronald Reagan to support the security and stability of the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Daniel M. Young (# 150818-N-NI474-067).

Sailors man the rails on the flight deck of USS George Washington (CVN-73) as the ship departs San Diego, 8 September 2015. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was transiting to Norfolk, Va., to begin a refueling complex overhaul period. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Joshua DuFrane (#150908–N–ZZ999–093).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) departs Naval Base Coronado en route to Norfolk, Va., 8 September 2015, to begin a refueling complex overhaul period. U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Joe Kane (#150908-N-ZC343-711).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) leads a formation during a passing exercise with Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Forces ships in the Pacific Ocean, 22 September 2015. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier was preparing to deploy around South America as a part of Southern Seas 2015. The eighth deployment of its kind, Southern Seas seeks to enhance interoperability, increase regional stability, and build and maintain regional relationships with countries throughout the region through joint, multinational and interagency exchanges and cooperation. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Paul Archer (# 150922-N-DM308-310).

Sailors man the rails on the flight deck of USS George Washington (CVN-73) as the ship arrives in her new homeport of Naval Station Norfolk, 17 December 2015. The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier arrived at Naval Station Norfolk as part of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9 following her forward deployment in Japan. The ship's arrival to Norfolk was part of a three-carrier swap with USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) and USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71). After serving seven years as the U.S. Navy's only forward-deployed aircraft carrier in Yokosuka, Japan, George Washington proceeded to San Diego for a 10-day crew swap turnover with Ronald Reagan in August 2015, then sailed around South America, participating in Southern Seas 2015 and UNITAS 2015.

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan Mai (# 151217-N-EH855-042).

The American flag flies at half mast aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73) in Norfolk, Virginia, 13 June 2016. President Barack Obama ordered all United States flags to half-mast as a mark of respect for the victims of the act of hatred and terror perpetrated on Sunday, 12 June 2016, in Orlando, Florida.

U.S. Navy photo by Mass Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Nathan Laird (# 160613-N-AT895-001).

The final mast section for USS George Washington (CVN-73) is prepared on the flight deck, 5 March 2019, before being lifted into position.

Photo by Matt Hildreth, courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipbuilding (HII).

USS George Washington (CVN-73) shows her freshly painted rudders underneath the ship's hull, 12 June 2019.

Photo by Ashley Cowan, courtesy of Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipbuilding (HII).

The anchor originally used by USS Enterprise (CVN-65) waits to be installed on USS George Washington (CVN-73), 2 August 2019. Photo by Matt Hildreth, ©Newport News Shipbuilding, # DCS19-441-6.