Search the Site with

General Characteristics

Crew List

Memorabilia

Cruise Books

About the Ship's Coat of Arms

COs of USS Harry S. Truman

Accidents aboard the Ship

About the Ship's Battle Flag

About Ship's Namesake

History

Deployments of USS Harry S. Truman

Homeports of USS Harry S. Truman

Patch Gallery

Construction Gallery

Image Gallery

to end of page

USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75)

USS HARRY S. TRUMAN is the eighth NIMITZ - class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier and the first ship in the Navy to bear the name.

back to top

go to the end of the page

back to top

go to the end of the page

Crew List:

This section contains the names of sailors who served aboard USS HARRY S. TRUMAN. It is no official listing but contains the names of sailors who submitted their information.

• Click here to view the list.

back to top

go to the end of the page

• Click here to see which USS HARRY S. TRUMAN memorabilia are currently for sale on ebay.

back to top

go to the end of the page

USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Cruise Books:

• Maiden Cruise Book 2000-01
• Mediterranean and Arabian Sea Cruise Book 2002-03
• Mediterranean and Arabian Sea Cruise Book 2004-05
• Mediterranean and Arabian Sea Cruise Book 2007-08
• Mediterranean and Arabian Sea Cruise Book 2010
• Mediterranean and Arabian Sea Cruise Book 2013-14

back to top

go to the end of the page

About the Ship's Coat of Arms:

Oval in shape, the coat of arms characterizes the global on-station capability of the ship and the United States Navy. Truman's name forms the shape of a forward-deployed aircraft carrier prepared to uphold and protect American interests.

The eagles assume a dominant presence denoting command of the sea, strength and authority, yet one grasps an olive branch, emphasizing the carrier's peacekeeping mission and Harry S. Truman's attitude: "To bear no malice." The eagle embodies the principles of integrity and honesty which personify Truman's attitudes and beliefs.

The encased signal flag inscription spells H S T and is flanked by wreaths denoting the honor and achievement which President Truman accomplished and the ship strives to achieve.

Thirty-three gold stars commemorate Harry S. Truman's term as 33rd president of the United States. The ship's motto, "The Buck Stops Here," derives from President Truman's belief that he ultimately bore the responsibility for making the final decision. Passing the buck was not an option.

back to top

go to the end of the page

USS HARRY S. TRUMAN's Commanding Officers:

back to top

go to the end of the page

back to top

go to the end of the page

Accidents aboard USS HARRY S. TRUMAN:

Date	Where	Events
September 10, 2002	25 miles south-southeast of Puerto Rico	One of VS-22's S-3B aircraft operating from USS HARRY S. TRUMAN was reported missing. Search and rescue efforts involving the TRUMAN Battle Group and other ships and aircraft operating in the southern Puerto Rican Operating Area covered more than 3,600 square miles of water. A debris field was discovered about 25 miles south-southeast of Puerto Rico. There were no survivors. The three deceased crewmembers have been identified as: Lt. Cmdr. Jeffrey J. Gray, 40, of Mound, Minn.; Lt. Cmdr. Michael D. Chalfant, 36 of Jacksonville, Fla.; and Lt.(jg) Thomas Brandan McCombie, 25 of State College, Penn. At the time of the accident, the TRUMAN Battle Group was conducting training exercises as part of a Composite Unit Training Exercise (COMPTUEX).
August 15, 2007	off North Carolina	An E-2C assigned to VAW-120 crashes into the Atlantic Ocean shortly after being catapulted off the flight deck of HARRY S. TRUMAN. The accident happened at 11.10 p.m. local time and the E-2C went down in an explosion approx. 1/2 mile from the TRUMAN. The carrier performed an emergency stop and a plane guard helicopter and small boats were dispatched immediately but no survivors or debris could be located. Killed in the accident were LT Ryan K. Betton, LT Cameron N. Hall and LT Jerry R. Smith.
January 7, 2008	Persian Gulf	An F/A-18E and an F/A-18F, both operating from USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, crash in the Persian Gulf after a mid-air collision. Both aircraft were providing en route close air support from Iraq when they crashed. All three aviators are rescued and were reported in good condition following their ejections.
October 16, 2012	east off Florida	During an underway replenishment with USNS PATUXENT (T-AO 201) a line parts injuring four TRUMAN sailors. Two of the sailors were medevaced to NAS Jacksonville, Fla. for treatment while another one was flown to NAS Norfolk, Va. The fourth sailor was treated on board.
December 9, 2012	Virginia Capes	The starboard wing of an E-2C collides with the spinning port propeller of another Hawkeye while both aircraft are chocked and chained. No injuries are reported.
August 12, 2015	off Virginia	An F/A-18C from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 catches fire on the flight deck of the HARRY S. TRUMAN while parked forward of the island during refueling. The fire is immediately extinguished by the ship's flight deck firefighting team. The pilot of the aircraft ejected and landed on the flight deck. The pilot received medical treatment by the ship's medical department before being transported to New Hanover Regional Medical Center, Wilmington, North Carolina, for further treatment of non-life threatening injuries. A Sailor assigned to the ship also sustained non-life threatening injuries from the incident and was also transported to the same location for treatment.
July 8, 2022	Mediterranean	An F/A-18E assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, embarked aboard HARRY S. TRUMAN, blew overboard due to unexpected heavy weather in the Mediterranean Sea. The carrier was conducting a replenishment-at-sea, which was safely terminated through established procedures. One Sailor received minor injuries while conducting operations during the unexpected heavy weather. The aircraft was recovered on August 3, 2022 from a depth of 9,500 feet.
February 12, 2025	off Port Said, Egypt	USS HARRY S. TRUMAN is involved in a collision with the merchant vessel BESIKTAS-M at approximately 11:46 p.m. local time while operating in the vicinity of Port Said, Egypt, in preparation for a Suez Canal transit. The carrier suffers slight damage on the starboard side aft of elevator 3. No injuries are reported among the crew. As a result of the collision, TRUMAN's CO, Capt. Michael D. Snowden, is relieved on February 20.
April 28, 2025	Red Sea	USS HARRY S. TRUMAN loses an F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 136 and a tow tractor as the aircraft carrier operates in the Red Sea. One Sailor sustained a minor injury.
May 6, 2025	Red Sea	An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11 is lost in the Red Sea during an attempted night landing aboard HARRY S. TRUMAN at approx. 9 p.m. The tailhook failed to catch an arresting wire and both aviators ejected from the aircraft. They were quickly rescued by a helicopter assigned to HSC-11 and only received minor injuries.

back to top

go to the end of the page

back to top

go to the end of the page

About the Ship's Battle Flag:

Steeped in tradition, every U.S. naval vessel has flown a battle flag from its mast during special evolutions. The crew of USS HARRY S. TRUMAN designed her battle flag as more than a tribute to the ship's namesake.

TRUMAN’s battle flag is a variation of the flag carried by the 129th Field Artillery Regiment of the 35th Division, the battery under the command of, then, Capt. Harry Truman during World War I.

The scarlett background is representative of the price Americans have paid for freedom throughout history, symbolizing President Truman's thoughts on American independence. "Freedom, in the American tradition, is always coupled with service...it still costs money. It still costs blood. "Freedom must be fought for today, just as our fathers had to fight for freedom when the nation was born."

The crossed cannons that once represented Battery D now seem to greater exemplify Truman's leadership and dedication to service during WWI. Ironically, the cannons are French 75s, the type of cannon Battery D fired during some of the fighting in France. The swallowtail design, crossed cannons, "129" and "D" comprised the original battle flag. The original components of the battle flag are superimposed on TRUMAN's hull number, signifying the relationship between the firepower of the past and present.

"Give 'em hell" has become the carrier’s battle cry and is part of Truman’s legacy. The phrase was first mentioned during Truman's 1948 re-election campaign during his 21,928-mile "whistle stop" rail tour. He delivered more than 300 speeches in 33 days to an estimated six million citizens, something no president had done before to meet the people. In Seattle, Truman was holding an enthusiastic campaign rally when someone cried, "Give 'em hell, Harry!"

Truman later wrote, "I have never deliberately given anyone hell. I just told the truth on the opposition and they thought it was hell."

back to top

go to the end of the page

back to top

go to the end of the page

USS HARRY S. TRUMAN History:

The contract for the construction of the eighth NIMITZ-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier was awarded to Newport News Shipbuilding in Newport News, Virginia. Originally intended to be named UNITED STATES, the ship was renamed HARRY S. TRUMAN in honor of the 33rd President of the United States. Her keel was laid on November 29, 1993. The carrier was christened by Margaret Truman Daniel, the former President's daughter, on September 7, 1996, and launched on September 13, 1996. Construction and fitting-out continued at Newport News, where three shipyard workers died in an accident in a confined space aboard the unfinished carrier on July 12, 1997. Following builder's and acceptance trials, HARRY S. TRUMAN was delivered to the Navy on June 30, 1998. She was commissioned at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, on July 25, 1998, with Captain Thomas A. Otterbein as her first commanding officer. President Bill Clinton attended the commissioning ceremony.

During the remainder of 1998, HARRY S. TRUMAN conducted shakedown operations and flight-deck certification off the Virginia coast. The first aircraft launches and arrested landings aboard the new carrier took place in August, followed by carrier qualifications with embarked aircraft and flight-deck crews. Her initial training period also included tests of communications, aviation support equipment, propulsion and combat systems. On November 11, a Blue Angels F/A-18 made an arrested landing aboard the ship as part of a carrier visit and demonstration. Subsequent training in 1999 included flight operations with F/A-18 Hornets, F-14 Tomcats and other aircraft assigned to Carrier Air Wing Three (CVW-3). The carrier entered Newport News Shipbuilding for a post-shakedown availability in March 1999, allowing the shipyard to address deficiencies identified during trials and make further changes before operational service. After returning to sea, she resumed qualifications, operational testing and training with the Atlantic Fleet. A visit to Halifax, Nova Scotia, during the autumn of 1999 was among her early foreign port calls.

Throughout 2000, HARRY S. TRUMAN worked toward her first overseas deployment. With CVW-3 embarked, the carrier took part in a series of exercises, including Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) and Joint Task Force Exercise (JTFEX), to qualify her shipboard departments, air wing and carrier battle group for extended operations. These preparations included air-defense exercises, anti-submarine warfare training, replenishments at sea and coordinated flight operations with surface combatants. On November 28, 2000, the carrier departed Norfolk for her maiden deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and the Arabian Sea. The battle group included the guided-missile cruiser USS SAN JACINTO (CG 56), the destroyers USS ARLEIGH BURKE (DDG 51), USS MITSCHER (DDG 57) and USS PORTER (DDG 78), the destroyers USS STUMP (DD 978) and USS DEYO (DD 989), the frigate USS CARR (FFG 52), and the attack submarines USS NORFOLK (SSN 714) and USS ALEXANDRIA (SSN 757).

After crossing the Atlantic and operating in the Mediterranean, HARRY S. TRUMAN continued through the Suez Canal toward the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf region. Aircraft from CVW-3 flew missions in support of Operation Southern Watch, enforcing the no-fly zone over southern Iraq and monitoring Iraqi air-defense activity. On February 16, 2001, aircraft from the carrier participated in strikes against Iraqi air-defense installations in response to threats against coalition aircraft. During the deployment the ship also participated in Exercise Arabian Gauntlet and conducted combined operations with regional and allied forces. Port calls and logistics visits included Souda Bay, Crete; Jebel Ali in the United Arab Emirates; Manama, Bahrain; and Rhodes, Greece. After returning through the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, HARRY S. TRUMAN arrived at Norfolk on May 23, 2001.

Following her maiden deployment, the carrier entered a Planned Incremental Availability at Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia, on September 5, 2001. The yard period included repairs, inspections, maintenance and modifications to systems that had been operated continuously during the first cruise. HARRY S. TRUMAN returned to sea in February 2002 and resumed carrier qualifications and integrated exercises with CVW-3. On September 10, 2002, an S-3B Viking from Sea Control Squadron 22 crashed into the Atlantic during flight operations associated with the carrier's workup period near Puerto Rico, killing all three crew members. The workup program included a single-day record of 335 arrested landings. Additional operational evaluations and a Joint Task Force Exercise followed in the autumn as the ship prepared for a second deployment.

HARRY S. TRUMAN departed Norfolk on December 5, 2002, with CVW-3 for operations in the Mediterranean and adjacent waters. Other ships associated with the carrier battle group included USS SAN JACINTO, USS OSCAR AUSTIN (DDG 79), USS MITSCHER, USS DONALD COOK (DDG 75), USS BRISCOE (DD 977), USS DEYO, USS HAWES (FFG 53), USS PITTSBURGH (SSN 720) and USS MONTPELIER (SSN 765). Logistics support was provided by ships including USNS MOUNT BAKER (T-AE 34) and USNS KANAWHA (T-AO 196). The carrier visited Marseille, France, from December 23 to 27, and made a subsequent logistics stop at Souda Bay, Crete, around the turn of the year. Operations in early 2003 included duties associated with Operation Southern Watch and preparations for possible combat operations in Iraq. A visit to Koper, Slovenia, was made at the end of January, while other calls during the deployment included Naples, Italy, and Portsmouth, England.

Following the opening of Operation Iraqi Freedom on March 19, 2003, aircraft from HARRY S. TRUMAN conducted their first strikes that evening, operating from the eastern Mediterranean. CVW-3 flew combat missions against designated targets in Iraq, while the carrier's air-defense, logistics and flight-deck teams maintained a sustained schedule of launches and recoveries. At one point during this deployment she remained underway for 89 consecutive days without a port call. The ship also supported operations linked to the broader campaign against international terrorism. The air wing completed approximately 1,280 combat sorties and delivered more than 700 tons of ordnance during the Iraq operation. After being relieved from her combat assignment in April, the carrier began her westward return, called at Portsmouth in early May and arrived at Norfolk on May 23, 2003.

The carrier then entered another maintenance and training cycle at Norfolk. A Planned Incremental Availability in early 2004 was followed by renewed carrier qualifications and exercises in preparation for the next deployment. On June 2, 2004, HARRY S. TRUMAN got underway as part of the Navy's Summer Pulse 2004 initiative, which tested the ability to operate several carrier strike groups within a short period. The ship crossed the Atlantic and operated in the Mediterranean, including a port visit to Naples in early July. Beginning on July 11, she participated in MEDSHARK/Majestic Eagle 2004, a multinational maritime exercise conducted off Morocco with ships and aircraft from several NATO and partner nations. USS ENTERPRISE (CVN 65) also took part in the exercise. HARRY S. TRUMAN returned to Norfolk on July 26. These exercises preceded, and were not part of, the deployment that began in October.

On October 13, 2004, HARRY S. TRUMAN departed Norfolk on her third overseas deployment with CVW-3. Her strike group included USS MONTEREY (CG 61), USS BARRY (DDG 52), USS MASON (DDG 87), the submarine USS ALBUQUERQUE (SSN 706) and the fast combat support ship USNS ARCTIC (T-AOE 8). After crossing the Atlantic and passing through the Mediterranean, the carrier reached the Middle East operational area and, in November, relieved USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV 67) in support of coalition operations. Aircraft from the carrier flew missions over Iraq under Operation Iraqi Freedom, while the strike group conducted maritime security, training and air-defense operations in the Persian Gulf and surrounding waters. The air wing accumulated approximately 2,577 combat sorties in support of Iraqi Freedom during the deployment. The ship made port and logistics visits to Souda Bay, Naples, Bahrain and Jebel Ali. After USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70) assumed the carrier's operating responsibilities in March 2005, HARRY S. TRUMAN began her return voyage, visited Portsmouth in early April and arrived at Norfolk on April 18, 2005.

On September 1, 2005, the carrier left Norfolk for the Gulf Coast following Hurricane Katrina, which had caused extensive flooding and destruction along Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. HARRY S. TRUMAN arrived in the disaster area on September 4 and operated off Mobile, Alabama, as a platform for helicopter operations, coordination and logistical assistance. Approximately 40 helicopters operated from the ship and supporting units during the relief effort, transporting personnel and supplies and assisting communities affected by the storm. The carrier formed part of a larger naval relief operation that also involved USS WHIDBEY ISLAND (LSD 41) and other Navy vessels. After supporting these operations, HARRY S. TRUMAN returned to Norfolk on September 23. In November she conducted further ammunition-handling and support activities off the East Coast in preparation for scheduled maintenance.

HARRY S. TRUMAN arrived at Norfolk Naval Shipyard on January 9, 2006, and entered dry dock the following day for a Drydocking Planned Incremental Availability (DPIA). The extensive overhaul involved preservation and repair of the underwater hull and appendages, work on propulsion and electrical systems, maintenance of aviation facilities, and improvements to shipboard equipment. She left dry dock on August 4 and shifted to a pier for additional work before returning to operational training. The carrier spent much of 2007 conducting flight-deck qualifications, integrated exercises and certifications with CVW-3. On August 15, 2007, an E-2C Hawkeye assigned to the training squadron VAW-120 crashed into the Atlantic following a launch from the ship during operations off Virginia. The accident killed all three aviators aboard.

The carrier's fourth overseas deployment began on November 5, 2007. With CVW-3 embarked, she operated with a strike group that included USS SAN JACINTO, USS HUE CITY (CG 66), USS CARNEY (DDG 64), USS OSCAR AUSTIN, USS WINSTON S. CHURCHILL (DDG 81) and USS MONTPELIER, while USNS ARCTIC provided replenishment support. The ships exercised with allied naval forces in the Mediterranean before proceeding toward the Persian Gulf. The carrier's aircraft conducted missions over Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, and the air wing also undertook missions associated with Operation Enduring Freedom. On January 7, 2008, two F/A-18 Super Hornets from the embarked air wing collided in flight over the Persian Gulf during a combat mission. The three aircrew members ejected and were recovered. Throughout the deployment, CVW-3 recorded approximately 2,459 combat sorties in support of Iraqi Freedom. Port calls included Marseille, Naples, Rhodes and Jebel Ali. HARRY S. TRUMAN returned to Norfolk on June 4, 2008.

The months following the 2008 deployment were devoted to maintenance, training and aviation qualifications. The carrier underwent a Planned Incremental Availability at Norfolk Naval Shipyard, followed by sea trials and operational preparations in 2009. In the course of the workup cycle, the carrier and CVW-3 carried out strike group exercises, flight operations and evaluations intended to restore full deployment readiness. HARRY S. TRUMAN departed Norfolk again on May 21, 2010, for a deployment to the Mediterranean and Arabian Sea. The carrier strike group included USS NORMANDY (CG 60), USS ROSS (DDG 71), USS OSCAR AUSTIN, USS WINSTON S. CHURCHILL and USS NORFOLK. CVW-3 conducted flight operations in support of coalition forces in Afghanistan under Operation Enduring Freedom and later undertook missions associated with Operation New Dawn following the transition in the U.S. mission in Iraq. The group also conducted exercises and interoperability training with allied forces, including the German frigate HESSEN.

During the 2010 deployment the carrier made port visits to Marseille, Souda Bay, Jebel Ali and Hidd, Bahrain. The air wing completed thousands of sorties while the ship conducted routine replenishments, equipment inspections and flight-deck maintenance at sea. The carrier crossed back into the Mediterranean late in the year and returned to Naval Station Norfolk on December 20, 2010. Following the cruise, HARRY S. TRUMAN resumed maintenance and training. In February 2011, an E-2D Advanced Hawkeye conducted its first aircraft-carrier catapult launch from the ship during operational testing, contributing to the introduction of the upgraded airborne early-warning aircraft into fleet service.

On March 25, 2011, HARRY S. TRUMAN entered Norfolk Naval Shipyard for another DPIA. The work included maintenance of the ship's nuclear-powered propulsion plant and other engineering systems, preservation of the hull, and upgrades to equipment supporting flight operations and navigation. During the yard period, Captain Tushar R. Tembe, the ship's commanding officer, collapsed while reporting for duty on November 8, 2011, and died shortly afterward. The carrier left dry dock in January 2012 and continued fitting-out alongside the pier. She completed sea trials in July, returned to Norfolk on July 10 and formally completed the availability later that month. Training resumed during the second half of 2012. On October 16, an accident involving a line during replenishment operations with USNS PATUXENT (T-AO 201) injured four sailors. In November the carrier served as a test platform for shipboard handling and deck operations with the X-47B unmanned combat air system demonstrator, an important stage in the Navy's evaluation of unmanned carrier aviation.

HARRY S. TRUMAN continued workups with CVW-3 through the first half of 2013, including aviation training, readiness inspections and strike group exercises. On July 22, 2013, she departed Norfolk for a deployment to the Mediterranean and Arabian Sea. The strike group included USS SAN JACINTO, USS GETTYSBURG (CG 64), USS BULKELEY (DDG 84), USS MASON and USNS ARCTIC. The deployment took place amid changing U.S. naval requirements in the Middle East, and the carrier operated for extended periods in the North Arabian Sea. Aircraft from CVW-3 flew missions over Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The carrier also conducted joint flight operations and interoperability training with the French aircraft carrier CHARLES DE GAULLE and its air group. Among the documented ports visited during the deployment were Marseille, Jebel Ali, Hidd and Palma de Mallorca. HARRY S. TRUMAN returned to Norfolk on April 18, 2014.

After completing the deployment, the carrier entered Norfolk Naval Shipyard on November 5, 2014, for a Condensed Incremental Availability lasting until the spring of 2015. The work included maintenance and modernization of the propulsion plant, aviation facilities and electrical systems, followed by dockside testing and checks at sea. HARRY S. TRUMAN left the shipyard on May 22, completed a five-day sea-trial period and returned to Norfolk on May 27, 2015. Subsequent preparations involved flight-deck certifications, exercises with Carrier Air Wing Seven (CVW-7) and strike group training. On August 12, a parked F/A-18C Hornet of VFA-106 caught fire during refueling operations on the flight deck. The pilot ejected from the aircraft while it was on deck, and the emergency was brought under control by shipboard firefighting personnel. Both the pilot and another sailor suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The carrier continued operational preparations for another Middle East deployment.

HARRY S. TRUMAN departed Norfolk on November 16, 2015, with CVW-7 embarked and served as flagship of Carrier Strike Group Eight. The strike group included USS ANZIO (CG 68), USS GONZALEZ (DDG 66), USS BULKELEY, USS GRAVELY (DDG 107) and USNS MEDGAR EVERS (T-AKE 13). During the outward passage the carrier operated in the Mediterranean and visited Split, Croatia, before proceeding through the Suez Canal toward the Fifth Fleet area. The air wing began strike missions against Islamic State targets in Iraq and Syria in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. HARRY S. TRUMAN remained in the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf region for much of the deployment, supported by underway replenishment and visits to Jebel Ali and Hidd. Souda Bay was also among the ports visited. The carrier and her air wing maintained a sustained cycle of flight operations, reconnaissance, aerial refueling and maintenance while coordinating with coalition forces.

On June 2, 2016, HARRY S. TRUMAN transited the Suez Canal northbound and returned to the Mediterranean, repositioning to continue Operation Inherent Resolve from a different operating area. On June 3, the air wing began conducting strikes against targets in Iraq and Syria from the eastern Mediterranean, demonstrating the ability to continue the campaign without remaining in the Persian Gulf. The deployment was extended beyond its original schedule, and the carrier's aviation units accumulated more than 9,000 sorties during the cruise. After handing over her operational responsibilities and crossing the Atlantic, HARRY S. TRUMAN returned to Norfolk on July 13, 2016.

On August 25, 2016, the carrier arrived at Norfolk Naval Shipyard for her next Planned Incremental Availability, which formally began on September 27. During this period, shipyard employees and crew members carried out repairs and equipment upgrades, inspections and preservation work, along with maintenance of the ship's propulsion, aviation and combat systems. The originally planned duration was longer than the approximately ten months ultimately required. HARRY S. TRUMAN completed the availability and got underway for sea trials on July 21, 2017. During the remainder of the year and early 2018, the ship conducted flight-deck and carrier qualifications, exercised with Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1), and participated in training designed to certify the carrier strike group for deployment.

On April 11, 2018, HARRY S. TRUMAN departed Norfolk with CVW-1 for the first phase of a deployment conducted under the Navy's Dynamic Force Employment concept. The strike group included USS NORMANDY, USS ARLEIGH BURKE, USS BULKELEY, USS FORREST SHERMAN (DDG 98) and USS FARRAGUT (DDG 99), with support from USNS ARCTIC. During its Atlantic crossing and Mediterranean operations, the group conducted exercises with allies, including Exercise Lightning Handshake with Moroccan naval and air forces. Aircraft from the carrier supported Operation Inherent Resolve, while the accompanying surface ships conducted maritime security, air-defense and anti-submarine warfare training. Port calls included Souda Bay and Marseille. HARRY S. TRUMAN returned to Norfolk on July 21 after approximately three months overseas, but the return was part of a planned interruption rather than the conclusion of the deployment cycle.

Following several weeks of maintenance and preparations in Norfolk, HARRY S. TRUMAN departed again on August 28, 2018, for operations in the North Atlantic and waters adjoining northern Europe. USS NORMANDY, USS ARLEIGH BURKE and USS FORREST SHERMAN operated with the carrier, supported by USNS ROBERT E. PEARY (T-AKE 5). The strike group visited Portsmouth, England, and took part in NATO Exercise Trident Juncture 2018, which brought together naval, air and ground forces in Norway and the Norwegian Sea. During the exercise the carrier operated north of the Arctic Circle, conducting flight operations in high-latitude conditions and supporting allied training in the North Atlantic. A subsequent port call took the ship to Lisbon, Portugal. HARRY S. TRUMAN returned to Norfolk on December 16, 2018.

The carrier remained in the Atlantic Fleet training and maintenance cycle during 2019. Planned deployment preparations were interrupted by difficulties with the ship's electrical distribution system, requiring repairs and additional tests before she could resume operations. HARRY S. TRUMAN departed Norfolk on November 18, 2019, with CVW-1 embarked, accompanied by elements of a strike group that included USS NORMANDY, USS LASSEN (DDG 82), USS FORREST SHERMAN and USS FARRAGUT, with replenishment support from USNS SUPPLY (T-AOE 6). The deployment involved operations in the Mediterranean, Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf region, including maritime security duties, joint training and support for ongoing U.S. operations. Duqm, Oman, was among the ports visited. The ship also took part in exercises and integrated training with regional partners and other U.S. naval units.

In March 2020, HARRY S. TRUMAN and USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN 69) conducted combined carrier operations in the Middle East while their respective air wings continued flight training and operational missions. As the COVID-19 pandemic spread, the Navy adjusted the schedule of the carrier's return to the United States. After leaving the Middle East operating area, HARRY S. TRUMAN remained at sea in the western Atlantic for an additional period, maintaining a crew that had been isolated from shore-based exposure and could be called upon for operations if needed. The ship's aircraft continued training, and the crew conducted maintenance and readiness inspections while port visits were restricted. HARRY S. TRUMAN returned to Norfolk on June 16, 2020. Subsequent work at Norfolk Naval Shipyard, including an extended incremental availability, occupied much of the following year before renewed certifications and exercises. The ship underwent an Inspection and Survey (INSURV) assessment in September 2021 as it prepared for another deployment.

On December 1, 2021, HARRY S. TRUMAN departed Norfolk with CVW-1 for an extended deployment to the U.S. Sixth Fleet area. The accompanying strike group included USS SAN JACINTO, USS GONZALEZ, USS COLE (DDG 67), USS BAINBRIDGE (DDG 96), USS GRAVELY, USS JASON DUNHAM (DDG 109) and USNS SUPPLY. After crossing the Atlantic, the carrier operated in the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas, conducting flight operations, air-defense exercises and training with allied ships and aircraft. In January 2022 the group participated in NATO's Neptune Strike exercise, during which command and control of the strike group was temporarily transferred to NATO. This arrangement was repeated during Neptune Shield in May. The exercises included operations with European carrier groups and surface combatants, demonstrating combined carrier aviation procedures and integrated air defense. Cooperation included naval aviation activities alongside the French carrier CHARLES DE GAULLE and the Italian carrier CAVOUR.

After the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, HARRY S. TRUMAN remained in the European theater as NATO reinforced surveillance and readiness along its eastern flank. Aircraft from the carrier conducted air patrols and other missions supporting allied requirements, while the ship's schedule was extended to maintain naval aviation forces in the Mediterranean. Port visits over the course of the deployment included Souda Bay, Split, Trieste, Naples, Marseille and Palma de Mallorca. On July 8, 2022, an F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the embarked air wing was blown overboard during unexpectedly severe weather as the carrier conducted a replenishment at sea in the Mediterranean. One sailor suffered minor injuries during the incident. On August 3, U.S. Navy personnel recovered the aircraft from the seabed at a depth of approximately 9,500 feet. HARRY S. TRUMAN returned to Norfolk on September 12, 2022.

Following the 2021-2022 deployment, the carrier entered Norfolk Naval Shipyard for a Planned Incremental Availability that lasted through most of 2023. The work included maintenance of the propulsion and engineering plants, upgrades to shipboard systems, preservation of the hull and preparation for the next operating cycle. On December 17, 2023, HARRY S. TRUMAN left Norfolk Naval Shipyard and returned to Naval Station Norfolk. She then completed sea trials and associated checks, with the availability formally declared complete on January 23, 2024. During the spring and summer of 2024, the carrier carried out flight-deck certifications, aviation training, exercises and readiness inspections with CVW-1. The crew completed preparations to deploy again to European and Middle Eastern waters.

HARRY S. TRUMAN departed Norfolk on September 23, 2024, for another overseas deployment with CVW-1. The strike group included USS GETTYSBURG, USS STOUT (DDG 55), USS THE SULLIVANS (DDG 68) and USS JASON DUNHAM, while USNS ARCTIC provided logistical support; the Italian frigate CARABINIERE also operated with the group. During the first phase of the deployment, the carrier exercised with NATO forces in the North Atlantic and North Sea, participating in Strike Warrior and Neptune Strike 24-2. These operations included integrated air-defense training, strike coordination and carrier flight operations with British and other allied forces. HARRY S. TRUMAN visited Oslo, Norway, at the beginning of November and subsequently moved south toward the Mediterranean. After passing the Strait of Gibraltar on November 25, she arrived at Marseille, France, on November 28.

During December 2024, HARRY S. TRUMAN continued eastward through the Mediterranean and entered the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility for operations related to attacks on commercial and naval vessels in the Red Sea. The carrier and her escorts conducted defensive operations against missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles launched by Houthi forces in Yemen, as well as strikes against designated military targets. On December 22, 2024, USS GETTYSBURG mistakenly engaged and shot down an F/A-18F Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron 11 shortly after it launched from HARRY S. TRUMAN. Both aviators ejected over the Red Sea and were rescued. A subsequent Navy investigation identified deficiencies in identification, coordination and training associated with the engagement. Flight operations and maritime defense activities continued after the accident.

In January 2025, HARRY S. TRUMAN remained in the Red Sea, launching combat and surveillance missions and maintaining readiness against threats to the strike group. On February 1, aircraft and other forces operating in support of the carrier strike group took part in a major U.S. strike against Islamic State targets in northern Somalia. On February 6, the carrier entered Souda Bay, Crete, for a scheduled port visit and replenishment before resuming operations. On February 12, at approximately 11:46 p.m. local time, HARRY S. TRUMAN collided with the merchant vessel BESIKTAS-M near Port Said, Egypt, while maneuvering in preparation for a transit of the Suez Canal. The collision damaged portions of the carrier's starboard side, including exterior structures, but caused no reported injuries and did not affect the nuclear propulsion plant. The carrier arrived at Souda Bay on February 16 for emergency repairs. On February 20, Captain Michael D. Snowden was relieved of command following the incident, and Captain Christopher F. Hill assumed command. The ship departed Souda Bay on February 23 after temporary repairs and returned to operational duties.

On March 15, 2025, U.S. Central Command began a sustained series of strikes against Houthi military targets in Yemen, later designated Operation Rough Rider. HARRY S. TRUMAN and her embarked air wing participated in the campaign while escorts continued missile and air-defense operations in the Red Sea. Launching and recovering aircraft during extended periods of heightened operational activity placed additional demands on the flight deck, maintenance departments and ship's force. On April 28, an F/A-18E Super Hornet of Strike Fighter Squadron 136 and the aircraft tug used to move it were lost overboard from the hangar area. The incident occurred while the ship was taking evasive action in response to an incoming threat. A subsequent investigation found that a failure of the aircraft's braking equipment and communication problems contributed to the loss.

On May 6, 2025, HARRY S. TRUMAN lost another aircraft when an F/A-18F Super Hornet of Strike Fighter Squadron 11 failed to complete an arrested landing during night operations in the Red Sea. Arresting cable No. 4 failed during the recovery, and the aircraft went overboard. Both aviators ejected and were rescued by a helicopter from the carrier. The Navy's investigation subsequently traced the failure to a defective component in the arresting-gear damping system. After concluding operations in the Red Sea and making the homeward transit through the Mediterranean and Atlantic, HARRY S. TRUMAN returned to Norfolk on June 1, 2025.

During the remainder of 2025, HARRY S. TRUMAN undertook post-deployment maintenance and began preparations for her Refueling and Complex Overhaul (RCOH). The preliminary phase, known as RCOH Smart Start, involved planning and preparation for the transfer of equipment and personnel, opening work areas to shipyard personnel, installing temporary services and arranging alternative berthing and working spaces. The preparation included the use of the accommodation barge APL-61 for members of the crew. These activities were intended to allow the extensive modernization and refueling work to proceed once the ship entered the shipyard.

On September 30, 2026, HARRY S. TRUMAN departed Naval Station Norfolk and arrived at Newport News Shipbuilding to begin the shipyard phase of her Refueling and Complex Overhaul. The Navy had awarded a contract valued at approximately $5.1 billion for the work on September 29. The overhaul includes refueling both nuclear reactors, major repairs and inspections of the propulsion and engineering plants, maintenance of the hull, shafts, propellers and rudders, and modernization of aviation, combat, communications and shipboard support systems. The work is scheduled to continue until November 2031, subject to the progress of the overhaul.

back to top

go to the end of the page

back to top

go to the end of the page

Homeports of USS HARRY S. TRUMAN:

back to top

go to the end of the page

USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Patch Gallery:

back to top

go to the end of the page

back to top

go to the end of the page

Construction Gallery:

back to top

go to the end of the page

USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Image Gallery:

			Click here to view more photos.

The photos below were taken by me and show the HARRY S. TRUMAN undergoing her Planned Incremental Availability (PIA) at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Va., on February 3, 2009.

The photo below was taken by me and shows the HARRY S. TRUMAN in the final stages of her 15-month dry-docking planned incremental availability (DPIA) at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Va., on May 6, 2012. The carrier entered the shipyard on March 25, 2011.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the HARRY S. TRUMAN at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., May 8, 2014.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the HARRY S. TRUMAN at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., October 23, 2014.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the HARRY S. TRUMAN at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, Va., October 12, 2016. The carrier entered the shipyard on August 25, 2016, for a 13-month Planned Incremental Availability (PIA). Work will include repair or replacement of shipboard nuclear support and propulsion systems; work within nuclear-controlled spaces; and work on specialized systems.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the HARRY S. TRUMAN at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on October 4, 2017.

The photos below were taken by me and show USS HARRY S. TRUMAN anchored in the Solent off Portsmouth, UK, on October 8, 2018. The carrier is presently operating in the North Atlantic and is scheduled to participate in the large scale NATO exercise Trident Juncture 2018 October 25 - November 7, 2018, off and in Norway.

			Click here for more Photos.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the HARRY S. TRUMAN at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth, Va., on October 9, 2023.

back to top

Back to Carriers list.

Back to ships list.

Back to selection page.

Back to 1^st page.