Today's US Navy Photos & Videos

PACIFIC OCEAN (May 22, 2012) Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment Officer Lt. Douglas Kay wears a clown suit while launching an E-2C Hawkeye as pilots and aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 depart the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and return to their home bases after nearly six months embarked. Carl Vinson and CVW 17 recently completed a deployment to the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Benjamin Stevens/Released)

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AQABA, Jordan (May 11, 2012) A Landing Craft Air Cushion departs the well deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21). New York is part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group with the embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit and is deployed participating in exercise Eager Lion 2012. Eager Lion is designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships through a joint, whole-of-government, multinational approach to meet current and future complete national security challenges, including 19 nations from five different continents and more than 11,000 participants. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zane P. Ecklund/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (May 22, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 3rd Class Nivek Funes salutes an F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22 as it launches from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and returns to its home base after nearly six months embarked aboard the ship. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Rosa A. Arzola/Released)

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MAYPORT, Fla. (May 22, 2012) Ship's Serviceman 3rd Class Robert Gomez, assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG 68), sees his newborn daughter for the first time during a homecoming celebration at Naval Station Mayport. The Sullivans completed a seven-month deployment after participating in several exercises with NATO allies in support of maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Damian Berg/Released)

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KINGS BAY, Ga. (May 16, 2012) Ensign Tabitha Strobel, main propulsion assistant aboard the guided-missile submarine USS Georgia (SSGN 729), updates the crew on a simulated weapons system casualty in the Attack Weapons System (ASW) trainer at the Trident Training Facility. The AWS trainer simulates an Ohio-class guided-missile submarine's AWS control room and is used to maintain Sailor proficiency in weapons handling and firing. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class James Kimber/Released)

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BANGOR, Wash. (May 18, 2012) Lt. Sohnhwa Lee, center, chief supply officer for the Blue Crew aboard the guided-missile submarine USS Ohio (SSGN 726), supervises a simulated dive as diving officer of the watch in the Ship Control Trainer at Trident Training Facility (TTF) Bangor. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Ed Early/Released)

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NEW YORK (May 23, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 7 from Norfolk, Va., flies past the Statue of Liberty at the beginning of Fleet Week New York 2012. More than 6,000 Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen arrived in New York on six U.S. Navy ships, three U.S. Coast Guard cutters, and 12 coalition ships. Fleet Week will commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the Star-Spangled Banner. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class David Finley/Released)

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NEW YORK (May 23, 2012) Sailors and Marines man the rails as the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) enters New York during a parade of tall and military ships at the start of Fleet Week New York 2012. More than 6,000 Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen arrived in New York on six U.S. Navy ships, three U.S. Coast Guard cutters, and 12 coalition ships. Fleet Week will commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the Star-Spangled Banner. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Leona Mynes/Released)

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NEW YORK(May 23, 2012) The guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG) makes its way past the New Jersey skyline in New York Harbor to participate in Fleet Week New York 2012. Fleet Week New York 2012 marks the 25th year the city has celebrated the nation's sea services. This year, the seven-day event coincides with he commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and will host more than 6,000 service members from the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard team in addition to coalition ships from around the world.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Lacordrick Wilson/Released)

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NEW YORK, (May. 23, 2012) The guided-missile destroyer USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) makes its way past the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor during the Parade of Sail launching Fleet Week New York 2012. The event marks the 25th year the city has celebrated the nation's sea services. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elisandro T. Diaz/Released)

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NEW YORK, (May 23, 2012) The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer JS Shirane (DDH 143) makes its way past the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor during the Parade of Sail launching Fleet Week New York 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elisandro T. Diaz/Released)

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NEW YORK(May 23, 2012) The Ecuadorian navy sail training ship BAE Guayas (BE 21) sails past the Statue of Liberty to participate in Fleet Week New York 2012. Fleet Week New York 2012 marks the 25th year the city has celebrated the nation's sea services. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Lacordrick Wilson/Released)

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HAT YAO, Thailand (May 23, 2012) Royal Thai and U.S. Marine amphibious assault vehicles land on the beach during a simulated amphibious assault for Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand 2012. CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held annually in Southeast Asia to strengthen relationships and enhance force readiness. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Aaron Glover/Released)

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HAT YAO, Thailand (May 23, 2012) An amphibious assault vehicle departs the beach for the amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) during a simulated amphibious assault conducted with Royal Thai marines for Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Aaron Glover/Released)

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HAT YAO, Thailand (May 23, 2012) U.S. Marines position amphibious assault vehicles on the beach during a simulated amphibious assault conducted with Royal Thai marines for Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Robert Clowney/Released)

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HAT YAO, Thailand (May 23, 2012) U.S. Marines with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, participate in a simulated amphibious assault conducted with Royal Thai marines for Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Robert Clowney/Released)

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HAT YAO, Thailand (May 23, 2012) Marines with Company F, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, conduct a clearing exercise in a military operations on urban terrain training area as part of a simulated amphibious assault conducted with Royal Thai marines during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Aaron Glover/Released)

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RED SEA (May 17, 2012) Gunner's Mate Seaman Mac Carrier, of Bristol, Tenn., performs maintenance on an M2HB .50-caliber machine gun aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21). New York is part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group with the embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit and is deployed participating in exercise Eager Lion 2012. Eager Lion is designed to strengthen military-to-military relationships through a joint, whole-of-government, multinational approach to meet current and future complete national security challenges, including 19 nations from five different continents and more than 11,000 participants. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zane P. Ecklund/Released)

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GULF OF THAILAND (May 23, 2012) Royal Thai Navy medical officers and U.S. Navy Sailors and Marines watch the 4th Marine Regiment launch their amphibious assault vehicles (AAV) from the amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) during a bilateral U.S. and Royal Thai Navy beach landing. The 4th Marines and Germantown are participating in Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand 2012. CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held annually in Southeast Asia to strengthen relationships and enhance force readiness. (U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Jason M. Tross/Released)

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GULF OF THAILAND (May 21, 2012) U.S. Marines assigned to Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Pacific (FASTPAC) conduct a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) exercise with the Royal Thai Navy aboard a Thai fishing vessel. The exercise also included a maritime law enforcement team assigned to U.S. Coast Guard cutter Waesche (WMSL 751) as part of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand 2012. CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held annually in Southeast Asia to strengthen relationships and enhance force readiness. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class N. Ross Taylor/Released)

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GULF OF THAILAND (May 23, 2012) Marines assigned to the 4th Marine Regiment drive their amphibious assault vehicles toward Hat Yao Beach with a landing craft utility (LCU) from Beach Master Unit (BMU) 10 for a joint U.S. and Royal Thai Navy beach landing. (U.S. Navy photos by Ensign Jason M. Tross/Released)

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NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (May 24, 2012) The final keel section of the future USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is lowered into place at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding. The 680-metric-ton, 60-foot-tall lower bow unit was joined to the other keel sections and was the last major section of the ship installed below the waterline. Gerald R. Ford is now more than 75 percent structurally complete in the dry dock, and is on schedule to launch in 2013. The ship is scheduled to be delivered to the fleet in 2015. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Ricky Thompson Huntington Ingalls Industries Newport News Shipbuilding Division/Released)

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RED SEA (May 22, 2012) Sailors from the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) prepare to conduct visit, board, search and seizure exercises during Exercise Eager Lion 12. Eager Lion is a multinational exercise involving 19 nations from five different continents and more than 11,000 participants intended to strengthen military-to-military relationships through a joint, whole-of-government approach to meet current and future complex national security challenges. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Ian Carver/Released)

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NEW YORK (May 24, 2012) Television host Kelly Ripa, right, speaks with naval officers during a commercIal break on Live with Kelly during Fleet Week New York 2012. This marks the 25th year the city has celebrated the nation's sea services. This year, the seven-day event coincides with he commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and will host more than 6,000 service members from the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard team in addition to coalition ships from around the world. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Molly Anne Greendeer/Released)

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NEW YORK (May 24, 2012) Al Roker, an anchor on The Today Show, gives a shout out to Sailors and Marines in Rockefeller Center while taping The Today Show. Fleet Week New York 2012 marks the 25th year the city has celebrated the nation's sea services for the citizens of New York and the tri-state area. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Petty Officer 2nd Class Gretchen M. Albrecht/Released)

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SAN ANTONIO, Texas (May 24, 2012) Adm. Mark Ferguson, Vice Chief of Naval Operations (VCNO), is greeted by Sailors while visiting the Medical Education and Training Campus (METC), home to Navy's Corpsmen "A" school. Ferguson toured San Antonio Military Medical Center (SAMMC) as well as Navy and joint training sites at Naval Technical Training Center, Lackland and METC. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Cmdr. Christopher Servello/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (May 23, 2012) Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Kenny Klein receives the first hug from his daughter and wife, Angeleia, during the guided-missile destroyer USS Halsey (DDG 97) homecoming celebration at Naval Base San Diego. Halsey, part of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1, returned home after a six-month deployment supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Rosalie Garcia/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (May 23, 2012) A C-2A Greyhound assigned to the Providers of Carrier Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 30 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joshua E. Walters/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (May 23, 2012) Aviation ordnancemen move ordnance on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joshua E. Walters/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (May 23, 2012) Sailors perform maintenance on an F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Vigilantes of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151 in the hangar bay of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Mason D. Campbell/Released)

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MINA SALMAN PIER, Bahrain (May 12, 2012) Fire Controlman 2nd Class Josiah Jackson removes ammunition from the close-in weapons System in order to clean the system aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94). Nitze is deployed as part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jeff Atherton/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (May 27, 2012) Three Pearl Harbor survivors, right, pay respect to their fallen shipmates while a U.S. Marine stands at parade rest in the shrine room at the USS Arizona Memorial May 27, 2012, during the USS Arizona Memorial's 50th anniversary commemoration ceremony. The USS Arizona Memorial was dedicated on Memorial Day in 1962. The shrine room displays the names of 1,177 service members that perished on the USS Arizona. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Michael Holzworth/Released)

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PEARL HARBOR (May 27, 2012) U.S. Navy honor guardsmen stand at attention May 27, 2012, as military and civilian leaders enter the USS Arizona Memorial for the USS Arizona Memorial 50th anniversary commemoration ceremony in Honolulu, Hawaii. The memorial was dedicated on Memorial Day in 1962. Since its construction, the memorial has stood as a place to remember the tragedy, and honor the dead. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Michael Holzworth/Released)

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PASCAGOULA, Miss. (May 25, 2012) Chief of the Boat Bill Stoiber coordinates docking as the Virginia-class attack submarine Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Mississippi (SSN 782) arrives in Pascagoula, Miss. for a commissioning ceremony on June 2. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Todd Frantom/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (May 22, 2012) Logistics Specialist 1st Class Darrius Jenkins works out in the torpedo room aboard aboard the Virginia-class attack submarine Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Mississippi (SSN 782).The boat is en route to Pascagoula, Miss., for commissioning on June 2. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Todd Frantom/Released)

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (May 22, 2012) The Virginia-class attack submarine Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Mississippi (SSN 782) pulls into the port of Cape Canaveral, Fla., during a transit from Groton Conn., to Pascagoula, Miss., for the submarine's commissioning on June 2. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Todd Frantom/Released)

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PASCAGOULA, Miss. (May 25, 2012) The Virginia-class attack submarine Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Mississippi (SSN 782) moors at Port of Pascagoula, Miss., in preparation for its commissioning ceremony June 2. Mississippi is the fifth U.S. Navy vessel to carry the name of the Magnolia State. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ryan G. Wilber/Released)

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NEW YORK (May 25, 2012) Children render a salute during the National Anthem at the Times Square Church in the Bronx during a Fleet Week New York 2012 community service event. Fleet Week New York marks the 25th year the city has celebrated the nation's sea services. This year, the seven-day event coincides with the commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and will host more than 6,000 service members from the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard team in addition to coalition ships from around the world. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason Daniel Johnston/Released)

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NEW YORK (May 25, 2012) Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Nigeria Johnson-Key, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1), shares her camera with children at the Times Square Church in the Bronx during a during a Fleet Week New York 2012 community service event. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason Daniel Johnston/Released)

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NEW YORK (May 26, 2012) Members of the Coast Guard Ceremonial Honor Guard Silent Drill Team perform for spectators in Times Square during Fleet Week New York 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elisandro T. Diaz/Released)

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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. (May 26, 2012) Girl Scouts from Staten Island Troop 5263 board the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) during Fleet Week New York 2012. The visit allowed the Girl Scouts to meet with female military members and learn about career options.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kenneth Robinson/Released)

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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. (May 26, 2012) Lt. j.g. Jocelyn Fox explains the use of a compass to Staten Island Girl Scouts from Troop 5263 during a tour of the guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) at Fleet Week New York 2012. The visit allowed the Girl Scouts to meet with female military members and learn about career options. This event marks the 25th year the city has celebrated the nation's sea services. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kenneth Robinson/Released)

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NEW YORK (May 25, 2012) The moon sets over the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) during Fleet Week New York. This marks the 25th year the city has celebrated the nation's sea services. This year, the seven-day event coincides with the commemoration of the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and will host more than 6,000 service members from the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard team in addition to coalition ships from around the world. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason Daniel Johnston/Released)

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PUGET SOUND, Wash. (May 24, 2012) Sailors man the rails as tiger cruise participants gather to commemorate their voyage with a spell-out on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). The tiger cruise allows Sailors and Marines to introduce their family and friends to experience shipboard life firsthand. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ryan Riley/Released)

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asif iqbal said:

the crazy thing is, United States makes LHDs the size of full blown aircraft carriers of a powerful country, and they have like dozen of them

the aircraft carries themselves are like floating citys!

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General Characteristics, Wasp Class

Builder: Northrop Grumman Ship Systems Ingalls Operations, Pascagoula, MS.

Date Deployed: July 29, 1989 (USS Wasp)

Propulsion: (LHDs 1–7) two boilers, two geared steam turbines, two shafts, 70,000 total brake horsepower; (LHD 8) two gas turbines, two shafts; 70,000 total shaft horsepower, two 5,000 horsepower auxiliary propulsion motors.

Length: 844 feet (253.2 meters).

Beam: 106 feet (31.8 meters).

Displacement: LHDs 1-4: 40,650 tons full load (41,302.3 metric tons) LHDs 5-7: 40,358 tons full load (41,005.6 metric tons) LHD 8: 41,772 tons full load (42,442.3 metric tons).

Speed: 20+ knots (23.5+ miles per hour).

Crew: Ships Company: 66 officers, 1,004 enlisted LHD 8: 65 officers, 994 enlisted Marine Detachment: 1,687 troops (plus 184 surge).

Armament: Two RAM launchers; two NATO Sea Sparrow launchers; three 20mm Phalanx CIWS mounts (two on LHD 5-8); four .50 cal. machine guns; four 25 mm Mk 38 machine guns (LHD 5-8 have three 25 mm Mk 38 machine guns).

Aircraft: 12 CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters; 4 CH-53E Sea Stallion helicopters; 6 AV-8B Harrier attack aircraft; 3 UH-1N Huey helicopters; 4 AH-1W Super Cobra helicopters. (planned capability to embark MV-22 Osprey VTOL tilt-rotors).

Landing/Attack Craft: 3 LCACs or 2 LCUs.

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SAN FRANCISCO (May 28, 2012) The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) is seen anchored in San Francisco Bay outside of AT&T Ballpark during a ballgame. Sailors from the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) were invited to the Memorial Day game for a "Salute the Troops" tribute. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman William Cousins/Released)

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SAN FRANCISCO (May 28, 2012) Marine Cpl. Nick Kimmel, a triple amputee who served in Afghanistan, tosses the ceremonial first pitch before the San Francisco Giants and Arizona Diamondbacks baseball game at AT&T Ballpark. Sailors from the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) were invited to the Memorial Day game for a "Salute the Troops" tribute. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman William Cousins/Released)

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SAN FRANCISCO (May 30, 2012) Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) man the rails as the ship leaves San Francisco to return to its homeport of Naval Station Everett, Wash., after a three-day port visit. Nimitz arrived in San Francisco May 27 in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the opening of the Golden Gate Bridge. (U.S. Navy photo by Airman Caramia M. Padgett/Released)

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SOUTH CHINA SEA (May 31, 2012) Aviation Structural Mechanic Airman Christine Barnett, assigned to the Warlords of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 51, conducts maintenance on the SH-60F Sea Hawk helicopter aboard the U.S. 7th Fleet flag ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Fidel C. Hart/Released)

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SOUTH CHINA SEA (May 31, 2012) Rounds are fired from the Phalanx close-in weapons system aboard the U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19). The weapons system combines a 20mm Gatling gun with search and tracking radar to provide surface ships with defense against anti-ship missiles. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Fidel C. Hart/Released)

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APRA HARBOR, Guam (May 31, 2012) The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Tucson (SSN 770) approaches the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39). Tucson is in the U.S. 7th Fleet Are of Responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist First Class Jason Swink/Released)

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SOUTH CHINA SEA (May 31, 2012) Aviation Machinist's Mate 3rd Class Megan Walters, assigned to the Warlords of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 51, conducts maintenance on the SH-60F Sea Hawk helicopter aboard the U.S. 7th Fleet flag ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Fidel C. Hart/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 7, 2012) The Virginia-class attack submarine Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Mississippi (SSN 782) conducts alpha trials in the Atlantic Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of General Dynamics Electric Boat/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 7, 2012) The Virginia-class attack submarine Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Mississippi (SSN 782) conducts alpha trials in the Atlantic Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of General Dynamics Electric Boat/Released)

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ANNAPOLIS, Md. (May 29, 2012) Midshipman 1st Class Kevin Hillery makes his way on stage to receive his diploma during the 2012 graduation ceremony at the U.S. Naval Academy. Despite an accident in April that left him paralyzed, Hillery was still allowed to graduate from the academy. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Peter D. Lawlor/Released)

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KARBABAD VILLAGE, Bahrain (May 21, 2012) Sailors and Marines assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) take pictures of ancient fort, Qal'Äôat al Bahrain, during a morale, welfare and recreation tour in Bahrain. Enterprise is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Gregory White/Released)

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PHILIPPINE SEA (May 27, 2012) An EA-18G Growler from the "Shadowhawks" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 141 is stopped by an arresting gear wire after landing aboard the forward deployed Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington departed Fleet Activities Yokosuka on May 26 to begin its 2012 patrol. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Paul Kelly/Released)

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WASHINGTON (June 4, 2012) Members of the Navy Ceremonial Guard parade the fifty state flags at the U.S. Navy Memorial to mark the start of the Battle of Midway Commemoration Day ceremony. Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert officially proclaimed June 4, 2012 "Battle of Midway Commemoration Day" and called upon all Sailors from this day forward to mark June 4 as a day to remember the bravery and legacy of Midway veterans. This year is the 70th Anniversary of the decisive Battle of Midway, known as the turning point in WWII, which lead to the United States' victory in the Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Peter D. Lawlor/Released)

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WASHINGTON (June 04, 2012) Sailors and Marines attend a wreath laying ceremony at the Navy Memorial to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Midway. The Battle of Midway was the turning point in the Pacific War and set the stage for the United States to win the Second World War. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kiona Miller/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (May 30, 2012) Cryptologic Technician (Maintenance) James Nielsen fires a .50-cal machine gun aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71) during a live gunnery exercise. Cape St. George and Carrier Strike Group 9 are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and combat flight operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christopher S. Johnson/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (June 2, 2012) Personnel Specialist Seaman Naomi Aponte helps Ship'Äôs Serviceman Seaman Melissa Williams don a full firefighting ensemble during a general quarters drill in the hangar bay of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and combat flight operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Karolina A. Martinez/Released)

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RED SEA (May 31, 2012) Sailors assigned to a visit, board, search and seizure team aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) steady a stretcher being raised up to an SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter during a medical evacuation exercise. James E. Williams is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Daniel J. Meshel/Released)

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RED SEA (May 30, 2012) Gunner's Mate 3rd Class Calvin Brooks performs maintenance on MK 32 surface-vessel torpedo tubes aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Daniel J. Meshel/Released)

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ARABIAN GULF (May 28, 2012) Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Corey Kraemer, right, and Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Jonathan Baker, both assigned to the Checkmates of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211 embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN) 65, check and cycle an M61A1 machine gun for proper element tension. Enterprise is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Gregory White/Released)

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MANAMA, Bahrain (May 20, 2012) Sailors pull mooring lines from the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) to secure the ship to the pier during a routine port visit to Bahrain.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Felix Garza Jr./Released)

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ARABIAN GULF (June 4, 2012) Sailors and Marines aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) participate in a memorial ceremony commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Midway. The previous USS Enterprise, CV-6, played a key role in the battle. Enterprise is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Nick C. Scott/Released)

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ARABIAN GULF (June 4, 2012) Sailors and Marines aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) participate in a memorial ceremony commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Midway. The previous USS Enterprise, CV-6, played a key role in the battle. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brooks Patton/Released)

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POLARIS POINT, Guam (May 31, 2012) The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Tucson (SSN 770) comes alongside the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39). Tucson, homeported in Peral Harbor, is on a western Pacific deployment, while Emory S. Land is on an extended deployment in Guam serving as the primary afloat maintenance activity in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elizabeth Fray/Released)

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SOUTH CHINA SEA (June 4, 2012) Marines with 2nd Battalion, Company F, Amphibious Assault Battalion, and Company F, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, drive their amphibious assault vehicle from the amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) during a practice amphibious assault attack at Ivo Jangkar, Indonesia. Foxtrot and Germantown are participating in the underway phase of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Indonesia 2012. CARAT is a series of bilateral military exercises between the U.S. Navy and the armed forces of Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. Timor Leste joins CARAT for the first time in 2012. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jacob D. Barber/Released)

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NEWPORT, R.I. (June 4, 2012) Navy Counselor 1st Class Zeporah Dasher, center left, and Master-at-Arms Seaman Stephanie West lay a wreath at a memorial during a ceremony at the U.S. Naval War College commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Midway. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric Dietrich/Released)

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SOUTH CHINA SEA (June 4, 2012) Marines from the 2nd Battalion, Company F, Amphibious Assault Battalion, and Company F, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, execute a practice amphibious assault attack during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT). CARAT is a series of bilateral military exercises between the U.S. Navy and the armed forces of Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. Timor Leste joins CARAT for the first time in 2012. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Jacob D. Barber/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (June 4, 2012) A double-probe fuel line from the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS John Ericsson (T-AO 194) approaches a refueling station aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) during a replenishment at sea. Makin Island and embarked Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit are deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dominique Pineiro/Released)

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BOSTON HARBOR (June 4, 2012) USS Constitution gets underway for her first turnaround cruise of 2012. The underway commemorated the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Midway and recognized members of the Wounded Warrior Project. Constitution is the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat. She defended the sea lanes against threat from 1797 to 1855, much like the mission of today's Navy. (U.S. Navy photo by Sonar Technician (Submarine) 2nd Class Thomas Rooney/Released)

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