Independence (CV 62) - Naval Cruise Book

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Captain Denni W. Irelan United States N Commanding fiicer USS INDEPENDENCE QCV 62 ' 1993-1994 USS INDEPENDENCE cruisebook highlights the crew and captures many historical events in hopes that every member of our forward deployed I-5 team will enjoy it for years to come. The people and places we have visited are depicted as a record of INDEPENDENCEICVW 5 accomplishments. First and foremost, we maintained a can do, always ready reputation for tactical excellence and preparedness that was recog- nized and appreciated at the highest levels of our govemment. Every distinguished visitor that came to INDY, from the secretary ofdefense to the Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, reaffirmed the appreciation and high regard our leaders have for the dedicated efforts ofour entire crew and staffs. We can all take pride in the fact that U.S. presence, together with other allied nations, made a significant contribution to improved stability in the Pacific Command area of responsibility. If there ever was a situation where being on the tip of the spear was important, surely this was it. A tour ofduty on Freedom' s Flagship is certainly fast paced and exciting. We completed important bilateral exercises in Australia and the Arabian Gulf, and participated in the Rim of the Pacific '94 exercise with Japanese Maritime Self Defense Forces and the Republic of Korea Navy. These exercises were important building blocks in our cooperative engagement strategy for the Pacific region. Fortunately, it wasn't all work and no play. Exciting port visits to Australia, Japan, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, Thailand, Hong Kong and Hawaii highlighted our time away from homeport. Throughout our operational and inport periods, I- 5 team members conducted themselves professionally and as proud unofficial ambassadors of the United States of America. Your readiness and flexibility were tested during unscheduled underway operations after our retum from the 1993-1994 Arabian Gulf deployment. When called on, and as expected, everyone gave the extra effort required. Our presence provided the required military support for meeting national objectives. Your sense ofcooperation, good humor and recognition ofthe importance of our mission were key factors in getting the job done right. Additionally, the support we received from our families and friends was critically important to us, and as always, much appreciated. Thankfully, with daily attention to operational safety by all hands, we did not suffer a major mishap related to aircraft or ship operations during our extensive underway time. All of you are members of ajustifiably proud team t at is unsurp' p P . p to keeping INDY a leader in the defense ol' our country and our allies. Thank you for your dedicated service. I salute you. lt has h ' ass d in ride erformance and professionalism. dedicated been my privilege to serve with you. Fair winds and following seas. COMMANDING OFFICER - 23

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