The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) – along with the embarked staff of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10, George H.W. Bush CSG arrived in Piraeus, Greece, for a scheduled port visit, Feb. 3, 2023.
The port visit enhances the NATO Alliance and allows the Sailors of George H.W. Bush CSG a chance to experience Greek culture.
“Our mission on deployment has been to work closely with our partners and NATO Allies in order to deter, and if necessary, defend the Alliance,” said Rear Adm. Dennis Velez, commander, CSG-10, George H.W. Bush CSG. “Port visits like this one provide an opportunity for us to engage with our Allies and develop meaningful relationships that make a substantive difference across our force.”
Earlier this week, Greek military authorities confirmed the death of the Captain Tsitlakidis and Lieutenant Touroutsikas of a Hellenic Air Force F-4 Phantom fighter aircraft during a training flight. As they arrive in Greece, the Sailors of George H.W. Bush and CSG 10 honor the memory of these Hellenic aviators.
“We were saddened to hear of the loss of Captain Tsitlakidis and Lieutenant Touroutsikas this week,” said Velez. “We extend our condolences to the families and airmen who are grieving the loss of their family members, friends, and brothers-in-arms this week. We honor their memories and service to their country.”
During their time in port, leaders from George H.W. Bush will meet with Greek leadership during a key leader engagement to reinforce relationships and strengthen the NATO Alliance. Additionally, Sailors from the ship will take much deserved time off to experience the cities of Piraeus and Athens.
Strengthening partnerships during the port visit to Piraeus builds enduring relationships and emphasizes our shared commitment to promoting safety and stability within the region, while seeking opportunities to enhance our interoperability as NATO Allies.
CSG-10, George H.W. Bush CSG, is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.
George H.W. Bush is the flagship of CSG-10, George H.W. Bush CSG. George H.W. Bush CSG is comprised of George H.W. Bush, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26, the Information Warfare Commander, and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55).