Today's US Navy Photos & Videos

MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 24, 2012) Sailors signal that an F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Bounty Hunters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2 is ready for launch from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Carlos M. Vazquez II/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 21, 2012) A landing craft air cushion departs the well deck aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21). New York and the embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) are part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zane Ecklund/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 20, 2012) A landing craft air cushion departs the well deck aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21). New York and the embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) are part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group deployed supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zane Ecklund/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (July 18, 2012) The Littoral Combat Ship USS Independance (LCS 2) recovers a boat while moored at Naval Base San Diego. (U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Joe Kane/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 18, 2012) Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Caroline Etter fires a M240 machine gun during a weapons qualification on the fantail of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is returning to its homeport of Bremerton, Wash. after conducting sustainment exercises off the coast of California. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Will Tyndall/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 26, 2012) Sailors raise the national ensign as the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) transits the Strait of Gibraltar. Abraham Lincoln is en route to the United States to complete an eight-month deployment and change of home port during which she operated in the U.S. 5th, 6th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Carlos M. Vazquez II/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 27, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Golden Falcons of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12 offloads ordnance from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joshua E. Walters/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 27, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Golden Falcons of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12 offloads ordnance from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) to the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joshua E. Walters/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 25, 2012) Aviation Structural Mechanic 3rd Class Tim Hennings operates an aircraft jack in the hangar bay of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) to troubleshoot an F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Kestrels of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 137.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Zachary S. Welch/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 25, 2012) Amphibious assault vehicles line up to depart the welldeck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). Green Bay is part of the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group and is underway conducting composite training unit exercise in the Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elizabeth Merriam/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 25, 2012) A landing craft air cushion assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 5 transits through the Pacific Ocean during the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group's composite training unit exercise. The exercise is a pre-deployment certification that evaluates an amphibious ready group's ability to conduct military operations at sea and support expeditionary operations ashore. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elizabeth Merriam/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 25, 2012) Aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, embarked aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), practice for an upcoming fire power demonstration in the skies above the ship. Lincoln is on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joshua E. Walters/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 25, 2012) An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Bounty Hunters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2 prepares to land on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joshua E. Walters/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 25, 2012) Aviation Ordnancemen transfer a weapons case in the hangar bay of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) during an ammunition offload. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Zachary S. Welch/Released)

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BANGOR, Wash. (July 26, 2012) Lance Cpl. Justin Gresham shows Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Rick D. West the gun turret of the Marine Corps uparmored vehicle Bearcat during a visit to Bangor, Wash. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Thomas L. Rosprim/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 19, 2012) Airman Apprentice Sassa Hernandez, from Salem, N.J., fires an M240 machine gun during a weapons qualification on the fantail of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is returning to homeport at Bremerton, Wash., after conducting sustainment exercises off the coast of California. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 25, 2012) Explosive ordnance disposal team members drop out of an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Golden Falcons of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12 onto the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joshua E. Walters/Released)

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MARINE CORPS BASE KANE'OHE BAY (July 25, 2012) Members of Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 9 train to fend off attackers from their camp during a Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jason Daniel Johnston/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (July 17, 2012) A Navy diver assigned to Southwest Regional Maintenance Center surfaces to retrieve a tool during maintenance operations on the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) at Naval Air Station North Island. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Foster Bamford/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 24, 2012) Machinist's Mate 2nd Class Benjamin Hyler, from Geneva, Fla., talks to Damage Control Central during a general quarters drill aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). 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 Britney N. Epps/Released)

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QUEBEC CITY (July 26, 2012) Chief Gunner's Mate Tyrone Lumpkin, left, and Gunner's Mate 1st Class Luiggi Baldo fire a gun salute toward Quebec City from the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS DeWert (FFG 45). DeWert, the Cyclone-class coastal patrol ship USS Hurricane (PC 3) and Canadian Halifax-class frigate HMCS Ville de Quebec (FFH 332) are visiting cities in America and Canada to celebrate the bicentennial of the War of 1812. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)

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NORFOLK (July 25, 2012) Tugboats guide the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) on the Elizabeth River to Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Va. George H.W. Bush will begin a planned incremental availability to refurbish and conduct intensive maintenance on shipboard systems. George H.W. Bush recently completed its first combat deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility in support of Operations New Dawn and Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Leonard Adams Jr./Released)

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QUEBEC CITY (July 26, 2012) Chief Gunner's Mate Tyrone Lumpkin, left, and Gunner's Mate 1st Class Luiggi Baldo fire a gun salute toward Quebec City from the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS DeWert (FFG 45). DeWert, the Cyclone-class coastal patrol ship USS Hurricane (PC 3) and Canadian Halifax-class frigate HMCS Ville de Quebec (FFH 332) are visiting cities in America and Canada to celebrate the bicentennial of the War of 1812. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)

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NORFOLK (July 25, 2012) Tugboats guide the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) on the Elizabeth River to Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Va. George H.W. Bush will begin a planned incremental availability to refurbish and conduct intensive maintenance on shipboard systems. George H.W. Bush recently completed its first combat deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility in support of Operations New Dawn and Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Leonard Adams Jr./Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 25, 2012) An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Blue Blasters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34 prepares to launch from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln is on a scheduled deployment supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joshua E. Walters/Released)

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CHARLESTOWN, Mass. (July 26, 2012) Master-at-Arms Seaman Garrett Thormodson explains the differences between the types of guns aboard USS Constitution to Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kathryn E. Macdonald/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 27, 2012) The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer JS Shirane (DDH 143) and the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Reuben James (FFG 57) are underway in close formation during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Raul Moreno Jr./Released)

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MAMALA BAY, Hawaii (July 26, 2012) Chief Navy Diver Jonathan Millen, assigned to Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 1, conducts surface checks on a Royal Australian Navy clearance diver while participating in surface supplied diving operations aboard the Military Sealift Command fleet ocean tug USNS Navajo (T-ATF 169) during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Anderson C. Bomjardim/Released)

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JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (July 26, 2012) Lt. Col. Randall Sauer and 1st Lt. Jonathan Loper, both KC-135 Stratotanker pilots assigned to the 465th Air Refueling Squadron based at Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., conduct a pre-flight check before a mission during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise.(U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Bradley C. Church/Released)

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TWIN FALLS, Idaho (July 24, 2012) Aircraft assigned to the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, fly in formation over Snake River Canyon near Twin Falls, Idaho. The Blue Angels are in Twin Falls to perform at the Magic Valley Air Show July 28-29. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Rachel McMarr/Released)

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PATUXENT RIVER, Md. (June 27, 2012) Navy test pilot Lt. Christopher Tabert pilots the first external stores flight of the F-35C Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter test aircraft. The F-35C is distinct from the F-35A and F-35B variants with larger wing surfaces and reinforced landing gear for greater control when operating in the demanding carrier take-off and landing environment. (U.S. Navy photo by Andy Wolfe/Released)

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NAVAL AIR SYSTEMS COMMAND, PATUXENT RIVER, Md. (July 29, 2012) - The X-47B launches safely from Pax River for a 35-minute flight over the Chesapeake Bay, July 29. (U.S. Navy photo/Released).

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 26, 2012) The Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Guadaloupe (T-AO 200) sends fuel to the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71) during a replenishment at sea. Cape St. George is deployed as part of Carrier Strike Group 9, operating in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christopher S. Johnson/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 27, 2012) A Russian navy KA-27 Helix helicopter lands aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) during a Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. Twenty-two nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in the RIMPAC exercise from June 29 to Aug. 3, in and around the Hawaiian Islands. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2012 is the 23rd exercise in the series that began in 1971. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Jess Lewis/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 25, 2012) Sailors assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) signal that an F/A-18C Hornet from the Rampagers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83 is ready to launch. Dwight D. Eisenhower 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 2nd Class Julia A. Casper/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 25, 2012) A Sailor assigned to Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) signals that an F/A-18C Hornet from the Rampagers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83 is ready to launch. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Julia A. Casper/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (July 25, 2012) Sailors assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) attach a pendant to the cargo hook of an AS332 Super Puma helicopter during a replenishment at sea. 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 Meshel/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 24, 2012) Operations Specialist 2nd Class Ferocious Parker, left, from Canton, Miss., and Operations Specialist Seaman Kamell Benjamin, from Hyattsville, Md., track contacts in the combat direction center aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). 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 Jared King/Released)

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NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY, Bahrain (July 19, 2012) Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician 1st Class Christine Franklin, left, assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 11, shows radiation and chemical detectors to Rear Adm. Kenneth Perry, vice commander of Naval Mine and Anti-Submarine Warfare Command. EODMU-11 is assigned to Commander Task Group (CTG) 56.1, which provides mine countermeasures, explosive ordinance disposal, salvage-diving, counter-terrorism, and force protection in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John Callahan/Released)

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WAIMANALO, Hawaii (July 28, 2012) Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) 73 approaches Bellows Beach at Marine Corps Training Area Bellows during the biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. (Canadian Forces photo by MCpl Marc-Andre Gaudreault, Canadian Forces Combat Camera/Released)

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NAVAL BASE KITSAP-BREMERTON, Wash. (July 27, 2012) Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Larry Roberson, right, assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), proposes to his girlfriend, Nicole Franklin, during his re-enlistment. Stennis is in its homeport of Bremerton, Wash. after conducting sustainment exercises off the coast of California. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth Abbate/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (July 27, 2012) The amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) transits San Diego Bay on its way to the Pacific Ocean for local operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Joe Kane/Released)

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QUEBEC CITY (July 30, 2012) Sailors man the rails aboard the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS DeWert (FFG 45) as the ship departs Quebec City. DeWert, the cyclone-class coastal patrol ship USS Hurricane (PC 3) and the Canadian Halifax-class frigate HMCS Ville de Quebec (FFH 332) are visiting cities in America and Canada to commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Tony D. Curtis/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 30, 2012) Airman Chris Pichardo cleans the canopy of an F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Vigilantes of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151 on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is on a regularly scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Tim D. Godbee/Released)

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POLARIS POINT, Guam (July 30, 2012) Island dancers perform for the submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) as it returns to Guam following a six-month regular overhaul and dry-docking maintenance availability period in Portland, Ore. Frank Cable conducts maintenance and support of submarines in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jeremy Starr/Released)

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ATLANTIC OCEAN (July 27, 2012) Culinary Specialist 1st Class Christopher R. Williams tosses pizza dough in the commanding officer'Äôs in-port cabin aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Lincoln is en route to the United States as it completes an eight-month change-of-homeport deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Zachary S. Welch/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 29, 2012) Chief Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Electrical) Hernan Senoren, from Oahu, Hawaii, conducts training with Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Electrical) Fireman Chelvis Marshall, from Shepherd, Texas, on transferring electrical loads from shore power to ship's power aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66). Hue City 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 Darien G. Kenney/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 26, 2012) Logistics Specialist Bryan Welch fires an M240B machine gun during a weapons qualification exercise aboard the amphibious dock-landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44). Gunston Hall and its embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit are part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonathan Sunderman/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 27, 2012) Aviation Machinist's Mate Airman Mackenzie Lane conducts maintenance on an SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42 before a functional check flight aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109). Jason Dunham is on a scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Jamieson/Released)

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 27, 2012) Aviation Structural Mechanic 3rd Class Thomas Fiedler wipes down an SH-60B Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 42 before a functional check flight aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Jamieson/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 27, 2012) Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Brandon Wilson, from McLoud, Okla., yells orders to heave around lines as the guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66) prepares to rig up during a replenishment at sea. Hue City 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 Darien G. Kenney/Released)

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GREAT LAKES, Ill. (July 27, 2012) Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs Juan M. Garcia III walks through one of the simulated bomb-damaged berthing areas aboard USS Trayer (BST 21) at Recruit Training Command. Garcia was the reviewing officer at the weekly pass-in-review graduation. USS Trayer (BST 21) is an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer simulator used for training Navy recruits. (U.S. Navy photo by Scott A. Thornbloom/Released)

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GREAT LAKES, Ill. (July 27, 2012) Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs Juan M. Garcia III congratulates recruits following a capping ceremony at Recruit Training Command. Garcia, visiting the command for the second time, toured the command's training facilities, talked with staff members and recruits, and was the reviewing officer at the weekly Pass-in-Review graduation. (U.S. Navy photo by Scott A. Thornbloom/Released)

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GREAT LAKES, Ill. (July 27, 2012) Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs Juan M. Garcia III reviews recruits with Capt. John T. Dye, commanding officer of Recruit Training Command, at the weekly Pass-In-Review graduation in the USS Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall. Garcia, visiting the command for the second time, toured the command's training facilities and talked with staff members and recruits during his visit. (U.S. Navy photo by Scott A. Thornbloom/Released)

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NORFOLK (July 31, 2012) The guided-missile destroyer (Flight I) USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) returns home from deployment. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tommy Lamkin/Released)

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Admiral Arleigh A. Burke, USN,
Chief of Naval Operations

Addresses a U.S. Naval Academy pep rally on 23 November 1960, on the eve of that year's Army-Navy football game.

Official U.S. Navy Photograph, from the collections of the Naval Historical Center.

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Arleigh Albert Burke was born far from sea in Boulder, Colorado on 19 October 1901. On 8 June 1923, he graduated from the US Naval Academy and was commissioned an Ensign in the US Navy. He married Miss Roberta Gorsuch of Washington, DC.

Throughout his professional career, Admiral Burke had prepared himself for combat with the enemy having served in battleships and destroyers, and earning a Master of Science degree in Engineering from the University of Michigan. Then, when World War II came, he found himself, to his great disappointment, in a shore billet at the Naval Gun Factory [Washington Navy Yard] in Washington, DC. After persistent effort on his part, he received orders to the South Pacific where, under Admiral Halsey, he successively commanded Destroyer Division 43, Destroyer Division 44, Destroyer Squadron 12, and Destroyer Squadron 23. This latter squadron, known as the "Little Beavers," covered the initial landings in Bouganville in November 1943, and fought in 22 separate engagements during the next four months. During this period, the "Little Beavers," were credited with destroying one Japanese cruiser, nine destroyers, one submarine, several smaller ships, and approximately 30 aircraft.

From Destroyer Command in the South Pacific, he reported in March of 1944 as Chief of Staff to Commander, Fast Carrier Task Force, Admiral Marc Mitscher. While serving with this famed carrier force, Burke was promoted to Commodore, and participated in all its naval engagements until June 1945 shortly before the surrender of Japan. He was aboard both USS Bunker Hill CV-17) and USS Enterprise (CV-6) when they were hit by Japanese suicide planes during the Okinawa campaign.

At the outbreak of the Korean war, Admiral Forrest Sherman, then Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), ordered Admiral Burke to duty as Deputy Chief of Staff to Commander Naval Forces, Far East. From there, he assumed command of Cruiser Division Five, and in July 1951 he became a member of the United Nations Truce Delegation to negotiate with the People's Republic of China and North Korea to establish military armistice in Korea. After six months in the truce tents, he returned to the Office of Chief of Naval Operations where he served as Director of Strategic Plans Division until 1954.

In April 1954, he took command of Cruiser Division Six, and in January 1955 assumed command of Destroyer Force Atlantic Fleet in which capacity he served until he succeeded Admiral Robert B. Carney as CNO in August 1955. Burke served an unprecedented three terms as CNO duty before being transferred to the Retired List on 1 August 1961.

Arleigh Burke’s life as a civilian continued to be busy and fulfilling. Following several months of needed inactivity, he entered the business world by agreeing to join the boards of several major corporations, including the Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company and Texaco Oil. In addition, he worked to establish the Georgetown University Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). Serving as its chairman for some fifteen years, Burke helped craft it into a respected Washington “thinktank”.

Burke died on New Year’s Day, 1996 at the age of 94. Eulogized by President William Clinton and both current and former senior Navy leaders during a service at the Naval Academy Chapel on 4 January, he was buried at the Academy’s picturesque cemetery at Hospital Point.

Admiral Burke received numerous combat awards during his forty-two years in the Navy including the Navy Cross, the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit and the Purple Heart. But none was more cherished than two awards which came early in his career. In 1928 while serving aboard USS Procyon (AK-19), he was commended for the "rescue of shipwrecked and seafaring men," and in 1939 while serving in his first command, USS Mugford (DD-389), he was commended when his destroyer obtained an unprecedented perfect score during short-range battle practice, thereby winning the Destroyer Gunnery Trophy for 1939-1940.

Source: Adapted from "Admiral Arleigh A. Burke, United States Navy, Retired" [biography, dated 29 Jan 1962] in Biographies, 20th century collection, Navy Department Library.

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MEDITERRANEAN SEA (July 30, 2012) Fire Controlman 2nd Class Auntravion Ellis jumps into the Mediterranean Sea from the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) during a swim call. Jason Dunham is on a scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Jamieson/Released)

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OROTE POINT, Guam (July 30, 2012) The submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) is on its way to its homeport as it passes Orote Point and enters into Apra Harbor. Frank Cable has returned to Guam after a six-month regular overhaul and dry-docking maintenance availability period in Portland, Ore. Frank Cable conducts maintenance and support of submarines in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jeremy Starr/Released)

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PATTAYA, Thailand (July 29, 2012) The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Buffalo (SSN 715) comes alongside the submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39). Buffalo, homeported in Guam, is on a western Pacific deployment while Emory S. Land is on an extended deployment to Guam, conducting coordinated tended moorings and afloat maintenance in the U.S. 7th fleet area of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jared Aldape/ Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 29, 2012) Naval Aircrewman 2nd Class Dusty Bartell, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 4, maintains control of a hoist cable while lowering priority repair parts to the Royal Navy submarine HMCS Victoria (SSK 876) during a Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Derek R. Sanchez/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 29, 2012) A sailor aboard the Royal Navy submarine HMCS Victoria (SSK 876) signals to a Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 4 aircrewman to raise the hoist cable while receiving priority repair parts during a Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Derek R. Sanchez/Released)

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WAIMANALO, Hawaii (July 28, 2012) Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) 32, assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 5, departs Bellows Air Force Station for the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Daniel Barker/Released)

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MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII (July 29, 2012) Leading Seaman Simone Black, assigned to Royal Australian Navy Clearance Diving Team 1, examines a role player during a Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 personnel evacuation scenario.(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Anderson C. Bomjardim/Released)

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JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (July 25, 2012) Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 Hornets from the 425 Tactical Fighter Squadron in Bagotville, Quebec, prepare for take off during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. (Canadian Forces photo by MCpl Marc-Andre Gaudreault, Canadian Forces Combat Camera/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 29, 2012) Marine Pvt. Seth Stites fires an M-240B machine gun during a live-fire exercise aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). Green Bay is part of the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group and is underway conducting a composite training unit exercise in the Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elizabeth Merriam/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 29, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Zach Byrd directs a CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter assigned to the Purple Foxes of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 364 (Reinforced) during nighttime flight operations aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Elizabeth Merriam/Released)

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PACIFIC OCEAN (July 31, 2012) A Marine ascends a pilot's ladder to embark aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Michael Duran/Released)

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MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII KANEOHE BAY (August 1, 2012) Marine amphibious assault vehicles assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) ride onto a beach in formation during a mechanized assault exercise during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012. Twenty-two nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in the biennial RIMPAC exercise from June 29 to Aug. 3, in and around the Hawaiian Islands. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2012 is the 23rd exercise in the series that began in 1971. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Eric T. Crosby/Released)

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MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII KANEOHE BAY (August 1, 2012) A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter kicks up dust as it lands during a beach landing exercise at Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Paul Seeber/Released)

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MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII KANEOHE BAY (August 1, 2012) A Tongan marine covers a doorway during a beach landing exercise at Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Paul Seeber/Released)

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KAHUKU TRAINING AREA HAWAII (July 31, 2012) Marines from 1st Battalion 3rd Marine Regiment and soldiers from the Republic of South Korea and New Zealand army, enter the Kahuku Training Area during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 aerial exercises. RIMPAC 2012 is the 23rd exercise in the series that began in 1971. (New Zealand Defence Force photos by LAC Amanda McErlich/Released)

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JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (August 1, 2012) The Russian navy Udaloy-class destroyer Admiral Panteleyev (BPK 548) rounds Hospital Point at Pearl Harbor following the at-sea phase of the biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Brian Brannon/Released)

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GULF OF OMAN (July 27, 2012) The guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94), left, and the Royal Canadian Navy frigate HMCS Charlottetown (FFH 339) conduct a joint training exercise. 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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ARABIAN SEA (Aug. 1, 2012) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 2nd Class Luzviminda Angeles, from Virginia Beach, Va., studies to become an arresting gear engine operator aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). 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 Scott Pittman/Released)

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SEATTLE (Aug. 1, 2012) The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) participates in the Parade of Ships during the 63rd annual Seattle Seafair. Seafair activities allow U.S. and Canadian Sailors and Coast Guard personnel to experience the local community and to promote awareness of the maritime forces. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Timothy A. Hazel/Released)

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SAN DIEGO (July 31, 2012) The amphibious assault ship USS Makin Island (LHD 8) transits San Diego Bay on its way to the Pacific Ocean for local operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Joe Kane/Released)

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EVERETT, Wash. (July 31, 2012) The guided-missile destroyer USS Halsey (DDG 97) passes the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) while departing the pier at Naval Station Everett. Halsey, New Orleans, and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) embarked approximately 300 guests for the annual Youth Cruise from Everett, Wash. to the Seattle waterfront kicking off Seattle Seafair Fleet Week events. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jeffry Willadsen/Released)

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JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM (July 26, 2012) U.S. and Australian navy divers prepare to survey a sunken tugboat off the coast of Hawaii. The Sailors are working together in support of the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Heidi McCormick/Released)

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ARABIAN SEA (July 29, 2012) Aviation Machinist's Mate 1st Class Vishan Ramnauth, from Long Beach, N.Y., and Aviation Machinist's Mate 3rd Class Alexander Iverson, from Katanning, Australia, assigned to the Checkmates of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211, perform an internal engine inspection on an F/A-18F Super Hornet aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). 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 Randy J. Savarese/Released)

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