Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 6, 2003
Contact:  Kirsten Kendrick or Roger Nyhus, Governor’s Office, 360-902-4136 or 360-239-1400 cell

Gov. Gary Locke Welcomes Home Crew of USS Abraham Lincoln

Gov. Gary Locke today participated in a hero’s welcome in Everett for the 3,300 sailors aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. The USS Abraham Lincoln had been at sea for nearly 10 months, the longest carrier deployment since 1973.

Locke flew out to the USS Abraham Lincoln on a helicopter early this morning to be with the sailors as they made their way into Naval Station Everett.

“Thank you for your willingness to serve our country in defense of freedom, peace and security for the entire world,” Locke told the crew. “We admire your courage and salute your efforts. Our state and country owe you a debt of gratitude for your service.”

The governor joined the crew’s families and friends as well as thousands of well-wishers in congratulating the sailors on their successful mission in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The USS Abraham Lincoln was nearing the end of a six-month deployment when it was diverted to the Persian Gulf on Jan. 1. While in the Gulf, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier’s warplanes flew hundreds of missions over Iraq. President Bush spent the night on board the USS Abraham Lincoln last week, where he declared to the nation and the world the end to combat in Iraq.

The USS Abraham Lincoln was the lead carrier in its battle group, which also consisted of the USS Camden, which returned to its homeport of Bremerton yesterday, and members of the VAQ-139 squadron - nicknamed the Cougars - who flew their EA-6B Prowler jets home to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island last week.

During the past six weeks, Locke has visited military personnel at several installations around the state, including Naval Station Everett; Naval Air Station Whidbey Island; Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane; and McChord Air Force Base and Fort Lewis in Pierce County.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The governor proclaimed today “USS Abraham Lincoln Day” in Washington state.

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