USS George H.W. Bush Arrives in Turkey

By MC3 Jeffrey Madlangbayan, USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs

ANTALYA, Turkey (NNS) -- The newest Nimitz-Class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) arrived in Antalya, Turkey for a scheduled port visit, Mar. 9.

This port visit is designed to strengthen maritime security working with our Turkish partners. The port visit will also give Sailors a chance to visit and explore Antalya with tours, including an evening banquet complete with Turkish musical instruments, a typical folk orchestra and a dance extravaganza focusing on traditional Turkish and Antalya folklore, a trip to the spring waters at Pamukkale, known for its therapeutic qualities and a visit to a Turkish bath.

"I really look forward to going on the Antalya City Tour to see all the sights and learn the rich history of the country," said Religious Programs Specialist 1st Class Celeste Shield, from Lafayette, La.

George H.W. Bush will also host a reception for dignitaries and regional partners on board in order to foster international relations.

This is the second port visit for George H.W. Bush since leaving Norfolk in February. It will provide the crew a long lasting, once in a lifetime experience. A shopping venture into Antalya provides Sailors with a look into the rich history and culture of the Turkish Nation. Sailors will have the opportunity to shop for many handmade products from local vendors such as scarves, clothes, ceramics, leather jackets, jewelry, carpets and handmade lamps.

George H.W. Bush is on scheduled deployment as a part of the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group to support maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th fleet areas of operations.