Chon Buri: A US carrier strike group arrived in Laem Chabang for a scheduled port visit on Wednesday.
The carrier strike group's flagship, USS Theodore Roosevelt, has not visited Thailand since 2018. It arrived with Carrier Air Wing 11 embarked. Ships from Destroyer Squadron 23 visiting Sri Racha include the USS Russell, USS Daniel K Inouye, USS Halsey, and USS Howard.
"We are grateful to the Thais for their hospitality in welcoming our strike group for this port visit," said Rear Adm Christopher Alexander, commander of Carrier Strike Group Nine.
"During this deployment, we have had several opportunities to meet, train and operate with allies and partners across the region, and we look forward to this chance to strengthen the long-standing friendship between the US Navy and Thailand," he said.
While the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier and other vessels from the strike group are docked in port, crewmembers will have the opportunity to explore the country. The aircraft carrier will also conduct several community service events, and several Thai-American crewmembers will also have a chance to reconnect with family.
"The Sailors of USS Theodore Roosevelt are honoured to return to the great nation of Thailand after such a long absence," said Capt Brian Schrum, the vessel's commanding officer.
"Our crew looks forward to learning about Thailand's rich history and building lasting friendships during their time here, and we thank the Thai people for their kindness and hospitality in welcoming us," he said.
Carrier Strike Group Nine departed San Diego for a regularly scheduled deployment to the Western Pacific on Jan 12.