When a ship as iconic as the USS Ronald Reagan departs from its nearly decade-long homeport, it is more than just typical turnover—it closes one book and starts another in the U.S.-Japan history book of nearly a century. Friends, families, and VIPs gathered at the packed Yokosuka naval base to say goodbye to guided-missile aircraft carrier Reagan, the only U.S. forward-deployed aircraft carrier homeported in Japan since 2015.
Reagan’s time in Japan was historic. While there, the ship and crew traveled more than 400,000 nautical miles, conducted hundreds of joint exercises with allies, and made visits to dozens of ports in the region. The carrier was a clear declaration of America’s dedication to an open and free Indo-Pacific.
The Reagan administration and its sailors ensured, as the U.S. Ambassador to Japan put it, that countless individuals throughout the region were able to live free from intimidation or fear. Beyond its defense contribution, the vessel also served a key role during times of crisis, distributing relief following natural disasters and supporting significant evacuations overseas.
Replacing Ronald Reagan with the USS George Washington wasn’t a matter of course, a ship rotation. It was a reflection of decades of intense cooperation and faith between the two nations. Approximately 350 sailors made the move together with their vessels, which ensured the valuable experience and continuity that keeps trade running smoothly and effectively.
A senior admiral highlighted how the Reagan served extremely well, showing force and running smoothly together with partners across the Indo-Pacific.
The return of George Washington is much-awaited. The warship previously sailed in Yokosuka between 2008 and 2015 and was instrumental in laying the groundwork for today’s strong U.S.-Japan naval relationship.
After a full makeover, refueling, and intense training, George Washington is ready to address the issues in the region. Its commanding officer was upbeat, noting the crew and Carrier Air Wing 5 are ready to resume their role as the Navy’s premier forward-deployed carrier.
This shift comes during a period of changing dynamics in the Indo-Pacific. The United States Navy is facing its own maintenance and shipbuilding headaches, making a partnership with Japanese shipyards more important than ever. The Ambassador referred to the region as “an away game” for America, but with friends nearby, it is nearly in the backyard, highlighting common goals for peace and stability.
For sailors who made Yokosuka their home, the connection to Japan is strong. Ronald Reagan’s commanding officer expressed genuine appreciation to the Japanese government and people for hosting and supporting them, calling the country a “second home” to the crew.
The Reagan legacy won’t be forgotten—it is still alive in the hearts of those who served and in the ongoing solidarity of the alliance as the George Washington takes up the torch.
With George Washington in place, the U.S. Navy affirms its stone-solid dedication to the area. It’s not a ship rotation—it’s a healthy reminder of the enduring friendship between two nations committed to peace, freedom, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.