When the USS Ronald Reagan, a vessel that has made history, leaves its homeport after six years, the handover is not just an event but a farewell and greeting to the shared history of the United States and Japan. The families, friends, and dignitaries gathered at the Yokosuka naval base to bid farewell to the guided-missile aircraft carrier, which has been the only forward-deployed U.S. carrier in Japan since 2015.
Reagan’s time in Japan was nothing short of historic. The ship and its crew completed over 400,000 nautical miles of sailing, held hundreds of joint exercises with allies, and called at numerous ports in the area. Its presence, thus, served as a promise of peace and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
This was not just about Reagan’s strategic role in keeping the peace; the crew and the ship were also offering concrete help to the people around them. The ambassador of the U.S. noted that a large number of people received support from the feeling of safety the carrier contributed to. Besides, the ship was very important in case of emergencies, as it was the delivery of relief in the aftermath of natural calamities and aiding in the evacuations that were critical.
Switching from Ronald Reagan to the USS George Washington was more than just a usual exchange. It is a demonstration of the long and deep collaboration and trust relations between the two countries. About 350 sailors embarked on the same ships as they moved to different locations, thus bringing valuable experience and continuity that allowed the smooth running of operations. An admiral of high rank lauded the work of the Reagan, highlighting its power and perfect coordination with partners throughout the region.
The homecoming of George Washington has been eagerly awaited. From 2008 to 2015, the ship was based in Yokosuka and was very instrumental in the development of the strong U.S.-Japan naval partnership that could be witnessed today.
After the process of modernization, refueling, and rigorous training, George Washington is ready to take up his duties. Its commanding officer expressed confidence and asserted that the crew and Carrier Air Wing 5 are prepared and willing to continue with their mission as a forward-deployed carrier providing regional stability.
The timing of this shift relates to the ever-changing situation in the area. Meanwhile, the U.S. Navy is going through hard times in terms of maintenance and shipbuilding. The collaboration with the Japanese shipyards is thus more important than ever.
The Ambassador drew a comparison between the area and a difficult “away game,” but added that having trusted partners next to you makes it feel like home and that it reinforces the common objectives of peace and security.
For the personnel who used to live in Yokosuka, the bond with Japan is very strong. The commander of the Reagan said that the crew and he personally felt that the Japanese people and the government had been very good hosts and especially since the country was like a “second home” to them.
The history of Ronald Reagan will remain alive—in the recollections of the people who were on the ship and in the ongoing collaboration as the George Washington mission continues.
Now that George Washington has been installed, the U.S. Navy makes clear that it remains committed to the region. This is not just another ship rotation; it is a sign of the long-lived friendship between two countries that have joined hands in the pursuit of peace, freedom, and stability in the Indo-Pacific.