US carrier George H.W. Bush visits Thailand after six-month Middle East deployment

The USS George H.W. Bush, a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, docked in Phuket, Thailand's popular resort island, on Sunday. Onboard were approximately 4,800 personnel, marking a period of respite and recreation following a six-month deployment in the Middle East. This vessel and its strike group had been supporting Operation Epic Fury and the U.S. naval blockade within the U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility, ensuring maritime security and stability in the Middle East.

The carrier's journey began in Norfolk, Virginia, and Mayport, Florida, in March, and it is the first port stop for the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group since its departure.

During the visit, the crew will engage in various cultural and community activities, including sightseeing tours and even a friendly soccer match against Thailand. The USS George H.W. Bush anchored offshore, while crew members disembarked via Phuket Deep Sea Port, with their activities lasting from October 4 to 9. Photos from the port reportedly showed sailors boarding boats to come ashore.

This visit comes after a five-day port call by the USS Abraham Lincoln at Laem Chabang, eastern Thailand, last month. The Abraham Lincoln hosted around 5,000 sailors and Marines, each estimated to spend up to 3,000 baht (approximately US$89) per day. Thailand stands as the United States' sole treaty ally in mainland Southeast Asia.