SOUTH CHINA SEA - Distinguished visitors from the Republic of Indonesia visited the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) at sea April 5.

Military and civilian leaders from the Republic of Indonesia met with John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) leadership, observed flight operations from the flight deck and toured several spaces throughout the ship.

"The U.S. and Indonesian navies share a common interest in maritime security," said Rear Adm. Mike Shoemaker, the JCSCSG commander. "As we continue to operate together, we will improve our ability to collectively contribute to security and stability throughout the region and ensure the sea lanes of commerce remain safe for all mariners."

The U.S. and Indonesian navies meet and train throughout the year, both bilaterally and multilaterally, to improve interoperability and to be prepared to collectively respond to any crisis. Continued cooperation and training between the two militaries helps to ensure stability in the region.

"Our Indonesian guests were very impressed and that's a very important part of building our partnership with Indonesia," said Kristen Bauer, the U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission to Indonesia. "Personally, it's a great pleasure seeing all of the American men and women doing a fabulous job."

The JCSCSG, consisting of Stennis, CVW-9, Destroyer Squadron 21 and guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG-53), entered U.S. 7th Fleet March 26 after spending nearly five months operating with and supporting U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT).