The Source for Navy News
Defense Chief Pays Visit to USS John F. Kennedy
Story Number: NNS041012-02
Release Date: 10/12/2004 11:24:00 AM
By Journalist 1st Class Kayla Thompson, USS John F. Kennedy Public Affairs
ABOARD USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (NNS) -- Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld and the ministers of defense from 18 coalition countries made a stop Oct. 9 aboard USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67), currently deployed to the Arabian Gulf in support of the global war on terrorism.
Rumsfeld and guests took a whirlwind tour of the ship and participated in a video teleconference with a key military component in Baghdad. Rumsfeld then met with the crew of Kennedy in the ship’s hangar bay.
“It is a privilege to have Secretary Rumsfeld and his guests on board,” said Capt. Dennis FitzPatrick, commanding officer of Kennedy. “A former naval aviator, he understands firsthand how much hard work by all of you goes into successfully accomplishing our mission.”
After Rumsfeld was presented with a Kennedy ball cap, making him a member of the crew, Rumsfeld spoke to the Sailors of Kennedy.
“The first time I was aboard a carrier was for the commissioning of USS Hollandia in 1943. I was 10 years old, and my father was the hangar deck officer," Rumsfeld said. "Many years later, I had the privilege of landing aboard another carrier, USS Monterey (CVL 26), this time as a pilot. So it is indeed a personal privilege for this son of a Navy man and an old broken down naval aviator himself, to be with you here on this great day."
He added that Kennedy was the perfect place to show what we’re fighting for.
“I cannot think of a better place for my fellow ministers of defense to witness America’s finest demonstrate what great patriots they are,” he said.
Rumsfeld took time to reenlist 80 Sailors, with reenlistment bonuses totaling more than $1.7 million. He also presented 17 Sailors with their warfare designations.
“As Secretary of Defense, I get to participate in any number of honor ceremonies, and certainly this one is near the top of that list," Rumsfeld said. "So, I thank you for your dedication to stay in the service of our nation, to keep our military forces strong with your experience and your professionalism. I certainly want to say you make us all proud.”
For related news, visit the USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/cv67.
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