USS George H. W. Bush (CVN-77) Challenge Coin - US Navy Carrier Shape

The USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) is the tenth and final Nimitz-class supercarrier of the United States Navy, commissioned on January 10, 2009. Named after the 41st U.S. President and World War II naval aviator, the carrier has been actively involved in several key military operations.

In May 2011, the USS George H.W. Bush embarked on its maiden deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and the Middle East. During this time, it supported Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation New Dawn in Iraq, providing vital air support and maritime security. The carrier’s air wing conducted numerous sorties aimed at supporting coalition ground forces and disrupting enemy operations.

In 2014, the ship played a crucial role in combating the rise of the Islamic State (ISIS). Deployed to the Persian Gulf, the carrier launched the first airstrikes against ISIS targets in Iraq as part of Operation Inherent Resolve. Its aircraft conducted sustained operations to degrade the capabilities of the terrorist organization, marking a significant contribution to international anti-ISIS efforts.

Again in 2017, the USS George H.W. Bush was deployed to the Mediterranean and the Middle East. It supported operations in both Iraq and Syria, contributing to the territorial losses suffered by the group.

Throughout its service, the USS George H.W. Bush has demonstrated flexibility and readiness, participating in humanitarian missions and multinational exercises. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, it continues to serve as a key asset in U.S. naval operations worldwide.