The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), a state-of-the-art aircraft carrier, is making its inaugural port call to St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands as part of its deployment under the U.S. Southern Command. This visit, scheduled for December 1, marks the first time the carrier has docked in this popular cruise ship destination, allowing sailors the opportunity for much-needed rest and relaxation.
The USS Gerald R. Ford, engaged in Operation Southern Spear while operating under the U.S. Fourth Fleet, made a swift transition from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean. This redeployment supports the Trump administration’s efforts to project regional strength and combat drug trafficking from South America. Rear Adm. Paul Lanzilotta, commander of Carrier Strike Group Twelve, praised his crew’s adaptability: “The sailors in our carrier strike group team have been extremely adaptable, taking our U.S. Southern Command tasking as priority number one,” he noted, emphasizing the mission to uphold law and order across the Western Hemisphere.
The carrier strike group has had a dynamic deployment period since leaving Naval Station Norfolk on June 24. Its operations included multi-domain exercises in the Atlantic Ocean, followed by a transit through the Arctic Circle and extensive missions in the Mediterranean with NATO Allies. The Gerald R. Ford participated in NATO’s enhanced vigilance activities, contributing to port calls in countries such as Croatia, France, Germany, Norway, and Spain. It officially entered the Southern Command area after passing through the Strait of Gibraltar on November 4.
As the carrier continues its mission, its movements gather attention due to heightened tensions surrounding Venezuela and the U.S. government’s increased rhetoric against drug cartels. Recently, President Trump stated that the airspace over Venezuela is effectively closed, leading to speculation about potential military responses, including possible strikes from the carrier aimed at stopping illegal drug trafficking.
The USS Gerald R. Ford’s deployment showcases the Navy’s commitment to enhancing security in the region, while also providing its sailors a unique opportunity for engagement in the Caribbean. This first port visit to St. Thomas is not only a momentous occasion for the crew but also represents strategic support for U.S. initiatives in the fight against narcotics.
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