Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group Sets Sail from Guam and Saipan

The USS Spruance (DDG 111) departed Saipan, Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, following a four-day port call.

Prior to this, the ships of Carrier Strike Group Three (CSG-3) had crossed the Pacific Ocean. Port calls offer Sailors and Marines a chance to engage in volunteer projects, immerse in new cultures, and take a much-needed break.

Rear Adm. Adan Cruz, commander of CSG-3, expressed enthusiasm about the visit. “The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is thrilled to make our first port stop in Guam and Saipan,” he said. He emphasized the historical and strategic importance of these islands to the U.S. Navy.

In Guam, 20 Sailors and Marines from USS Abraham Lincoln and Carrier Air Wing Nine reunited with their families during a homecoming ceremony attended by over 75 relatives.

During the visit, the crew engaged in multiple volunteer activities to strengthen ties with local communities. Projects included beach, pier, and hiking trail clean-ups, as well as work with Island Girl Power, a charity focused on empowering young Guamanian girls.

Sailors and Marines also enjoyed the islands’ rich natural beauty through tours organized by Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR). Activities included snorkeling, Jet Ski rentals, and cultural barbecues.

Capt. Pete Riebe, commanding officer of USS Abraham Lincoln, praised the crew’s efforts. “The Abraham Lincoln team pursues and achieves greatness every day,” he remarked, noting the crew’s dedication during flight operations, replenishments-at-sea, and training.

The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group includes USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), Carrier Strike Group Three, and Destroyer Squadron 21. It also features squadrons from Carrier Air Wing Nine and ships such as USS O’Kane (DDG 77), USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. (DDG 121), and USS Spruance (DDG 111).

Carrier Air Wing Nine comprises various squadrons like the “Black Knights” of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314, the “Tophatters” of Strike Fighter Squadron 14, and the “Black Aces” of Strike Fighter Squadron 41, among others.