TR deploys, will head to South Africa

[unhappycamper]

The aircraft carrier Theodore Roosevelt departed Norfolk on Sept. 8, and is planning to stop in South Africa before proceeding most likely to the Middle East. The other ships of the strike group leave on Sept. 10 and 12.


TR deploys, will head to South Africa
By Andrew Scutro - Staff writer
Posted : Tuesday Sep 9, 2008 6:41:34 EDT

NORFOLK, Va. — Unlike the usual cruise from Hampton Roads, Va., that proceeds through the Mediterranean and into the waters of the Middle East, the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group — which began deploying Monday — is expected to make its first port call in South Africa in the coming days.

“We have been invited and the planning is in progress,” said Rear Adm. Frank Pandolfe, strike group commander, speaking to reporters on the pier before the ship departed.

After the visit, the strike group is expected to head back up north toward 5th Fleet area.

One of the most recent U.S. warships to visit South Africa was the destroyer Forrest Sherman in the fall of 2007.

Capt. Ladd Wheeler, TR’s commanding officer, said a focus of the deployment will be ensuring stability and security through presence.


Rest of Africom article at: http://www.navytimes.com/news/2008/09/navy_trafrica_090808w/%2e