Navy Cross recipient, former Marine and current Phoenix Logistics associate RJ Mitchell, accompanied by former USAF RF-4 pilot and current PLI Senior VP for Business Development Rob Winkle, arrived on the USS Nimitz for an arrested carrier landing and tour of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. The trip began aboard a US Navy C-2A Greyhound Naval Aircraft leaving North Island NAS, San Diego and was sponsored by the Phoenix Chapter of the Navy League. While on board the Nimitz, RJ and Rob were greeted by the Skipper of the ship, Captain Paul Monger and the Executive Officer, Captain John Ring. RJ and Rob also had the privilege of meeting and talking with Rear Admiral Robert P. Girrier, Commander of the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (Strike Group 11).
While on board, RJ and Rob got to observe up close carrier launch operations from the deck of the Nimitz. Rob Winkle stated “It was a privilege to be able to see Phoenix Logistics’ products in action on the E-2C Hawkeye, the F-18s Super Hornet, and the SH-60 Seahawk helicopter all of which operate off the Nimitz.” RJ and Rob also had the opportunity to tour numerous areas of the ship, including Combat Directive Center, Flight Operations Center, approach control, the hanger deck, and crew galleys.
The highlight of the trip – other than first-hand observation of the flight operations – was RJ’s address to the entire crew of the USS Nimitz. RJ was asked by Admiral Girrier to talk to the crew about his combat experiences and what it means to be an American who sacrificed on behalf of his country. RJ’s speech was exceptionally well received by the entire crew and hundreds of sailors personally wanted to shake RJ’s hand afterward. After a full day of activities, RJ and Rob stayed in the VIP quarters aboard the ship before it returned to the San Diego Naval Base the following morning.
Phoenix Logistics is grateful to Rear Admiral Robert P. Girrier, the Officers, Pilots and Crew of the USS Nimitz, as well as the Phoenix Chapter of the Navy League for making the visit possible.
