George H.W. Bush Conducts First Swim Call of 2014 Deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Shaun Griffin

ARABIAN SEA (NNS) -- Sailors aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) enjoyed a swim call in the Arabian Sea, May 11.

For many Sailors, the 25-foot plunge into 84-degree water was their first swim call experience.

"This is the first swim call I've ever done," said Gunner's Mate Seaman Jack Miklya, from Saint Paul, Minn., "and it was a lot of fun."

Sailors who chose to participate in the swim call jumped from the edge of a lowered aircraft elevator into the Arabian Sea, where search and rescue swimmers stood watch to ensure a safe journey back to the ship's stern dock.

"We were out there to make sure everyone made it back to the ship safely," said Naval Aircrewman (Tactical Helicopter) 3rd Class Daniel White. "If Sailors began to cramp up or tire out, that's when we would come in to assist them."

Logistics Specialist Seaman Christina Jaser said the swim call was a much needed break from the rigors of the work week.

"The jump was the most exciting part," said Jaser. "It was a hard swim back to the ship, but it was a big stress reliever after a long week."

George H.W. Bush deployed Feb. 15 and is operating in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.