U.S.S. Ronald Reagan

Lex points us to news that the crew of U.S.S. Ronald Reagan is not going to get their typical downtime before another deployment. They returned home last July and will be heading out again in a matter of weeks.

But even "downtime" is busy. Here are some pictures from recent activities:

The 97,000 ton Nimitz-class nuclear powered aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN76) sails along the coastline while conducting carrier qualifications off the coast of Southern California. Official U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seamen (AW/SW) Kathleen Gorby.


Straddling the number one steam-powered aircraft catapult track on board USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), an aircraft handler directs a T-45A Goshawk into launch position.


[below] Following a “touch and go” on the flight deck of USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), a T-45A Goshawk climbs into the sky. The Nimitz-class nuclear powered aircraft carrier is currently conducting carrier qualifications of the coast of southern California. [Both official U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW/SW) Aaron Burden.]




On a cold blustery day, Seaman Recruit Larissa Stanczyk scans the horizon as part of her watch on the signal bridge of USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76)...off the coast of Southern California. Official U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW/SW) Aaron Burden.


[below] Sailors conduct damage control training in the hangar bay during a general quarters drill on board USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Official U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Amanda Williams.



Turning hard to starboard, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) positions itself to conduct the next cycle of flight operations...off the coast of southern California. Official U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW/SW) Aaron Burden.
Ohhh, I'd love to be out there! So close... and yet, so far [All pics taken from official Reagan website.]