Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (CSG) deployed April 2, 2007, in support of operations in the U.S. Unless deployment was accelerated, Nimitz would depart some time in March 2007. Successfully completing the COMPTUEX certifies the carrier and its air wing as qualified for open ocean operations.Īs of late 2006 the Nimitz was running about two months behind the Stennis in the schedule of pre-deployment training. COMPTUEX is normally conducted during a two-week to three-week period six to eight weeks before JTFEX. Nimitz Completed COMPTUEX 19 December 2006. The next major step for Nimitz is the Composite Training Unit Exercise, designed to integrate the ship with the rest of its strike group. According to Chief Warrant Officer Darrin Poole, Integrated Training Team (ITT) coordinator for Nimitz, the crew was more than prepared to demonstrate their level of skill and knowledge during more than 50 general quarters (GQ) and standalone drills evaluated by Afloat Training Group (ATG) Pacific since the ship returned from last year's deployment. USS Nimitz (CVN 68) passed another milestone on the way to deployment when the crew successfully completed Tailored Ship's Training Availability 02 November 2006, after more than 30 days at sea. The entertainment ranged from a traditional Mexican folk dance by Yeoman 1st Class (AW) Damaris Havens, to a performance of the African heritage anthem by Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Katrina Overton. Ted Branch, Nimitz' commanding officer, cut a cake to kick off the celebration on the aft mess deck, followed by entertainment and competition. USS Nimitz (CVN 68) crew members from all cultures and backgrounds came together during the Diversity Celebration Fair in the ship's hangar bay Oct. Nimitz previously earned a Battle "E" during the 2003 grading period, making this the second award in three years. The carrier took 11 of the 12 departmental awards given by COMNAVAIRFOR. The award recognizes aircraft carriers that have demonstrated superior performance and readiness in categories such as navigation, combat systems and weapons. Pacific Fleet in a ceremony 08 June 2006. James Zortman awarded USS Nimitz (CVN 68) the Battle "E" plaque for most battle-efficient aircraft carrier in the U.S. Nimitz Strike Group WESTPAC 07 DeploymentĬommander, Naval Air Forces (COMNAVAIRFOR) Vice Adm.