King Embarks on Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carrier, Surveys Operational Capabilities

Press Release

At the invitation of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) stayed aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS GEORGE WASHINGTON this weekend where he surveyed the ship's operational capabilities as it conducted exercises off the coast of North Carolina. While aboard the ship, Senator King, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, observed day and night flight operations, toured the ship and met with various crewmembers to gain a better understanding of carrier operations, and had dinner with ten sailors from Maine.

"From the destroyers built in Bath to the submarines overhauled at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, I've long known that our Navy has extraordinary capabilities -- but this weekend's embark upon the USS George Washington has reinforced for me the wide range and versatility of our Navy's operations," Senator King said. "Aircraft carriers like the USS George Washington are central to the Navy's mission to protect our national interests across the globe, and I am grateful to our incredible sailors, including those from Maine who I was fortunate to meet, whose pride and professionalism continue to impress me day-in and day-out. We are so lucky to have these great people looking after us."

Following his embark on the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, Senator King traveled to Newport News, Virginia to visit the USS GERALD R. FORD, the first of the Ford-class carriers, to better understand the capabilities of the newest class of carriers.

USS GEORGE WASHINGTON is the sixth ship of ten in the Nimitz-class of aircraft carriers and the fourth ship in the Navy's history to bear the name.

Senator King is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and also sits on its Seapower Subcommittee, which exercise oversight of the U.S. Navy.

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