REVAMPED USS GEORGE WASHINGTON DEPARTS FOR JAPAN TO FIGHT BATTLES
The USS George Washington is heading back to service after routine maintenance that lasted several years longer than expected. As the USS George Washington (CVN-73) heads back to service, it’s entering a much different landscape in terms of warfare. Additionally, USS George Washington Sailors have been mentally navigating rough seas due to the loss of several crew members to suicide.
Where Is the USS George Washington?
After a six-year period in the shipyard, the USS George Washington departed from Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia on Thursday, April 25th. It is headed to its new homeport in Japan. Now that it is being brought back into service for the Navy, the warship will be taking the place of the USS Ronald Reagan. The sea trials conclude the USS George Washington’s comprehensive overhaul, which began in 2017 at Newport News Shipbuilding. This lengthy process, initially supposed to last around four years but actually taking six, includes refueling the ship's nuclear reactors. Additionally, substantial repairs, upgrades, and modernization are necessary. Such a project is carried out only once during a carrier's 50-year service and is helpful for maintaining a longer lifespan. However, that doesn’t mean that everything has been smooth sailing surrounding the warship’s return. Following a thorough investigation into the command climate and quality of life for Sailors in a shipyard environment, the USS George Washington is embarking on its voyage. The investigation was prompted by the tragic suicides of three Sailors that occurred within one week. Adm. Daryl Caudle, Commander of U.S. Fleet Forces, acknowledged that the Navy had failed the crew of the USS George Washington during the investigation. Since its maintenance period began in 2017, the ship has experienced a total of nine crew suicides. According to Navy studies, 57% of all suicides on aircraft carriers occurred while the ship was in the shipyard. However, Navy officials are working to better support crew once the ships leave the shipyard.
Mental Health Issues Affect Sailors Even When at Port
Challenges await USS George Washington Commanding Officer Captain Brent Gaut, but his crew must overcome is fixing the unfortunate culture that continues to foster negative mental health. USS George Washington suicides are a bit complex. They’ve shown that even when not out at sea, Sailors have plenty of mental issues to overcome. The problem seems to be much bigger than any one ship, even if trends emerge for certain crews. There have been several examples of negative mental health and suicides in the Navy across the board. So much so that the branch is reacting to the suicides by providing additional mental health services, handbooks, and chaplains for its Sailors serving our country. Sadly, there is no quick fix. Whether minute or prevalent, suicide from any of our nation’s heroes is a tragedy. While it’s encouraging that the Navy is helping Sailors, it’s also disheartening to remember the amount of sacrifice that some bear in the name of our freedoms. If you or someone you know is in need of immediate mental health resources, the Veteran Crisis Line is available by dialing 988 and then pressing 1.
USS George Washington to Japan: Another Sign of Rising Tensions
It’s true that mental health issues continue to come more into focus as there are fewer stigmas and a better understanding of the issue. However, mental health isn’t the only concern for the Navy. The move to Japan feels hardly like a coincidence as tensions rise in Asia. Generally speaking, many experts believe that an increased naval force is necessary. Japan is easily the largest ally of the U.S. in the region. We maintain strong relations with South Korea as well. On top of our obligations of protecting both nations and others in the region, there are several issues arising on multiple fronts. Overall, the Navy has many issues dealing with mental health. Unfortunately, there are also geopolitical events unfolding throughout Asia that are in need of action. The future remains to be written but it’s clear that the USS George Washington is heading into uncharted waters. Related reads:
