Carrier Strike Group 5 Arrives in Busan

BUSAN, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- Units from Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5 arrived in Busan, Republic of Korea for a port visit, Oct. 16.

Aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62), and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Barry (DDG 52) and USS Stethem (DDG 63), arrived together for a routine port visit.

"We know that bilateral exercises provide our navies the opportunity to enhance important skills and ensure we are ready when it matters, and where it matters," said Rear Adm. Charles F. Williams, commander, Task Force 70 and CSG 5. "As we train together, we grow stronger as an alliance. Our continued goodwill and friendship with Korean people will keep us together for the years to come."

The U.S. Navy routinely works with the Republic of Korea (ROK) forces to maintain interoperability and presence in the area. Exercises are conducted throughout the year including subject matter expert exchanges, anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare drills, communication drills, air defense exercises, counter-mine planning, and distinguished visitor embarkations.

"The crew and I are thankful for the opportunity to work with our Republic of Korea partners," said Capt. Michael P. Donnelly, commanding officer of Ronald Reagan. "We have a unique ability to strengthen the U.S.-ROK alliance through exercises and our port visit in Busan, by continuing to be good maritime partners both on the sea and on land."

While in port, Sailors from the various ships will have the opportunity to participate in multiple community relations (COMREL) events where Sailors will help out at local schools, orphanages and assisted living homes in the area. The COMREL events continue to build the relationship between the U.S. and the people of the Republic of Korea.

Carrier Strike Group 5 is on patrol in waters surrounding the Korean Peninsula supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Commander Task Force 70, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/ctf70/.