The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) welcomed a distinguished delegation from Trinidad and Tobago on May 25. The high-profile visit underscores the enduring ties between the United States and Trinidad and Tobago and highlights the critical importance of continued engagement among maritime partners dedicated to security, cooperation, and stability throughout the region.
The U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) hosted the visit, which took place as the historic USS Nimitz executes Southern Seas 2026, a mission deployed under U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet. The deployment is designed to enhance maritime capability, improve interoperability, and strengthen multinational partnerships through joint, interagency exchanges.
During the visit, Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Defense Wayne Sturge commented, “This was really awesome. It was a signature moment of my life. The tour helped us to better understand what the U.S. does. It deepens our relationship; we appreciate all the U.S. has done for us in the region and continues to do to strengthen the relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and the United States.”
Commander of the Carrier Strike Group 11, Rear Admiral Cassidy Norman, welcomed the delegation onboard. He said, “USS Nimitz is a fantastic ship, and she is operating today the same as she has operated for the last 51 years. It’s very much an honor to continue to strengthen our partnership between your nation and ours. Trinidad and Tobago occupies an important position at the crossroads of the Caribbean and South America. We sincerely appreciate your unwavering commitment to security cooperation.”
The T&T delegation, which also included Minister of Works and Infrastructure Jearlean John, Minister of Land and Legal Affairs Saddam Hosein, Chief of Defense Staff Commodore Don Polo, and other military and government leaders, were treated to a tour of the ship, which included navigating the bridge, observing flight deck operations as aircraft launched and recovered, and a dynamic air power demonstration. The guided-missile destroyer USS Gridley (DDG 101), currently operating as part of the strike group, added to the display by pulling alongside the carrier during the presentation.
The visit held special meaning for several crew members on board. Nimitz leadership noted the distinct pride in having Trinbagonian-American sailors, Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Ger’shorm Adolph; Lt. Amir Mohammed, a pilot assigned to the “Battle Cats” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 73; Senior Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Akiel Mayers; Dental Surgeon Lt. Jordan Tretbar; and Personnel Specialist Seaman Recruit Octavia Cambridge join the tour, giving them an opportunity to showcase their experience alongside their Trinbagonian distinguished visitors.
Commanding Officer of the USS Nimitz Captain Joseph Furco said, “The USS Nimitz, on a farewell and final deployment, was excited to host our friends and partners from Trinidad and Tobago. It was a great opportunity to share some of our operations here and how we can work together as partners for prosperity and neighbors in this hemisphere.”
Please see links for photos and video from the Trinidad and Tobago visit below.
