Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Linda S. Swearingen
PHUKET, Thailand (May 29, 2013) – The Chief of Phuket Provincial Office, members of the Thai military and Thai nationals visited the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68), May 29.
Dr. Prajiad Aksornthamakul, Chief of Phuket Provincial Office, toured Nimitz during a port call visit in Phuket, Thailand.
During their time on Nimitz, the visitors met with Rear Adm. Michael S. White, commander of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 11, to learn more about the capabilities and assets of Nimitz and CSG 11.
White escorted Aksornthamakul and guests through the ship to view the hangar bays, flight deck, bridge and flag mess while describing the ship’s history and thanking their hosts.
“We know it’s a lot of work for Phuket to host us and we are grateful the Chief of Phuket Provincial Office visited our aircraft carrier,” said White.
Aksornthamakul expressed his and the local Thai community’s appreciation for Nimitz’ visit to Phuket as one of their port calls during the current deployment.
“I feel that Thailand and the United States Navy have a good relationship,” said Aksornthamakul. “The Phuket Provincial Office always welcomes Sailors to visit us. We would like to ensure that everyone who visits Phuket enjoys it. I would like to express our appreciation during Nimitz’ port call to the Sailors that are taking a vacation in Phuket. The tourism is very good for our economy and we appreciate it. We welcome the U.S. military to Phuket not only as Sailors, but also as tourists. We are very happy you came to Phuket.”
Nimitz Strike Group is deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts.
Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet 