MANILA (NNS) — Sailors of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1 arrived in Manila Bay, Philippines, May 15 for a scheduled port visit following the conclusion of 95 days supporting maritime theater security operations for Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation New Dawn.

CSG 1 consists of USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) and Destroyer Squadron 1's guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 104) and guided-missile cruiser USS Shiloh (CG 67).

During the CSG's first port visit after 52 consecutive days at sea, several events have been planned to maximize the opportunity to interact with Filipino nationals. Carl Vinson is fielding a soccer team to play a friendly game with Republic of Philippines Navy Sailors, and community service projects are allowing Sailors to volunteer their time and skills to benefit the community.

"Every single Sailor has put in a tremendous effort this deployment. We are very fortunate to visit the Philippines, which has a rich history and very special relationship with the Navy," said Rear Adm. Samuel Perez, CSG 1's commander.

"Whether it's the first time or the tenth time, a port visit to the Philippines is always memorable," said Capt. Bruce Lindsey, Carl Vinson's commanding officer. "There are many opportunities to make a positive impact wherever we go, and the Philippines is a great place to carry on that legacy of the Navy doing just that."

CSG 1 is conducting operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility as part of a regularly scheduled deployment.

For more news from USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn70/.