CNO Visits USS Monterey

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Mullen visits with side boys after being piped aboard USS Monterey (CG 61) at Naval Station Norfolk. Mullen was joined by Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Joe R. Campa Jr. Together, they visited USS Wasp (LHD 1) and held two all hands calls at the base theater. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Chad J. McNeeley

From USS Monterey Public Affairs Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Michael G. Mullen, accompanied by Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (SW/FMF) Joe R. Campa Jr., addressed approximately 350 Sailors aboard USS Monterey (CG 61) on May 1.

Monterey recently returned to Norfolk after six months of operating in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea. Mullen expressed his pride and gratitude for Monterey’s outstanding performance and professionalism demonstrated throughout the six months of intense operations.

“I am well aware of what you all have accomplished and all that you have done,” he said. “Your service, professionalism and dedication were a major part of the success of the overall mission.” “It was great to hear the CNO speak directly to us,” said Quartermaster Seaman Stephen Heiskell. “I know what we did on the deployment was important, but this really drove it home as to just how important the success of our mission was.” While deployed, Monterey served as the flagship for Standing North Atlantic Treaty Organization Maritime Group 2, commanded by Rear Adm. Michael Groothousen, and supported Operation Active Endeavor.

Monterey also conducted boarding operations and provided the recognized maritime and air pictures for the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. Additionally, she played a major role in Operation Peaceful Summit, providing maritime security and air defense to world leaders, including the President of the United States for the G-8 Summit held in Riga, Latvia. Monterey visited 10 foreign ports and safely navigated more than 30,000 nautical miles while conducting the operations. Monterey is commanded by Capt. Robert Oldani and is currently operationally ready for short notice surge operations in support of the Fleet Readiness Plan.