CENTCOM Commander Visits CVN 77

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Connor McDermott, USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs

ARABIAN SEA (NNS) -- Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, commander, U.S. Central Command, spoke to the crew of the aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77), provided an update on current events and thanked them for their service July 26.

"I just wanted to come out today and tell everyone thank you for what you do," said Austin. "Thanks for what you've done most recently as part of our operations in Iraq and Afghanistan."

Austin added that he wanted to remind Sailors that their country and he personally appreciated what they are doing in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

"I know you're out here sweating on the deck, and you're wondering if you are making a difference or what you're doing is important. Well I'm here to tell you face-to-face today that it is important, and you're making a hell of a difference," said Austin.

After Austin finished his speech he made time to answer questions from Sailors on important strategic issues like operations in Iraq, the future of central command, Middle East exit strategies and hazardous duty pay.

"Gen. Austin lived up to his reputation, addressing my question perfectly," said Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class Charles Gillum, of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 87.

"The eyes of the world are on the conflict in Iraq and on this strike group because they know you bring the punch to where it matters and that you can make things happen," said Austin.

Austin ended the all hands call with a heartfelt thank you to all of the Sailors and their families.

"You're helping to promote the interests of the United States of America," said Austin. "Thanks for what you do. You're doing very well and we're all grateful."

Commanded by Rear Adm. DeWolfe Miller, George H. W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWB CSG) is comprised of the aircraft carrier George H.W. Bush, Carrier Air Wing 8, Destroyer Squadron 22, the guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), the guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun (DDG 103) and the guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80).

GHWB CSG deployed Feb. 15, 2014, and is operating in the 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.