A Persistent Forward Presence
Updated On: 12/28/2011 3:30:04 PM
A persistent forward Presence
Carrier Strike Group One deploys to support Operation Enduring Freedom
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Luke B. Meineke
USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and embarked Carrier Air Wing 17 sailors said goodbye to friends, family and loved ones when the ship departed Naval Air Station North Island Nov. 30 for a scheduled deployment.
The scene was familiar to many sailors, as well-wishers braved the early hour and cold to see them off as they did one year ago. Wives, husbands, parents, daughters, sons and old friends were on the pier to say farewell.
Jessica Madrid, a Navy wife of almost three years, watched her husband, Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Mark Madrid, assigned to Weapons Department G-4 Division, walk up the ship's brow to his home for the next six months.
"He had to be here by 6 a.m., so I just got to walk him to the gate and give him a hug and a kiss bye," Jessica Madrid said.
She is confident they are prepared for this second deployment.
"We've done it. We got through the first one, and they say the first one's always the hardest," she said. "We're just going to try and save money and keep in contact as much as possible."
Some Vinson sailors look forward to the opportunities a deployment provides.
"I think it's going to be easier than the last two deployments I've been on," said Aviation Electrician's Mate 3rd Class Kristopher Bradley, assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 15 who is looking forward to advancing to the rank of second class petty officer, saving money and achieving his enlisted aviation warfare specialist qualification.
"I'm optimistic," he said. "My eyes are open."
Sailors and family experiencing deployment for the first time were less assured.
"I'm nervous for him," said Margarita Vega about her son, Airman Giancarlo Vega, assigned to Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 125.
Alexis Helton, wife of Aviation Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class John Helton, assigned to Air Department V-1 Division, stood with their newborn son, Nathan, on the cusp of their second deployment together.
"It's a little different with a newborn," she said. "It's intimidating because there's a lot more for me to do on my end. I'm just proud of the sailors and proud to be a Navy wife."
Meinke is assigned to USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs. read more...
