News Release

Norfolk, Virginia – U. S. Office of Personnel Management, Director, Kay Coles James joined thousands of USS Theodore Roosevelt (USS TR) family members in welcoming home the crew of the ship and saluting them for their service. After a five month deployment in support of operation Iraqi Freedom, the USS TR returned to its home port in Norfolk, Virginia, on May 29, 2003.

Director James and other members of the OPM staff attended the joyful reunion. “My heart has been with all the members of the crew and their families throughout the deployment,” said James. “They are truly America’s heroes and I salute them for a job well done.”

James met with USS TR Captain Richard O’Hanlon and his wife Eileen, in a private homecoming celebration onboard the ship where Capt. O’Hanlon introduced Director James to the incoming Commanding Officer. O’Hanlon, a Rear Admiral selectee, is scheduled to leave the USS TR in June. “Over the past two years we have developed a very close partnership with the ship and her crew, which will continue in peace and in war,” James said.

OPM adopted the USS TR shortly after September 11, 2001, when it was deployed in support of operation Enduring Freedom for ten months. Over the past two years OPM employees have donated 10,000 Valentines, 1,600 toys for the annual holiday parties, two USO-style talent shows, more than 1,300 music CDs, 1,200 videos and hundreds of books, candy, popcorn, cards and toiletries to the 5,500 men and women on the ship. OPM is headquartered in the Theodore Roosevelt Federal Building.

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OPM oversees the federal work force and provides the American public with up-to-date employment information. OPM also supports U.S. agencies with personnel services and policy leadership including staffing tools, guidance on labor-management relations and programs to improve work force performance.

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