Carrier Strike Group 7

Carrier Strike Group Seven traced its lineage back to Night Carrier Division Seven, the U.S. Navy's first and only aircraft carrier formation exclusively dedicated to night air operations. Established on 19 December 1944, its aircraft carriers provided night air combat patrols for the U.S. Pacific Fleet's Fast Carrier Task Force during World War Two. Night Carrier Division Seven participated in the Philippine and Okinawa campaigns as well as carrier air raids against the Japanese home islands.{{cite book |last1= Reynolds |first1= Clark G. |author-link1= Clark G. Reynolds |title= The Fast Carrier: The Forging of an Air Navy |edition= revised |year= 1992 |orig-year= 1968 |publisher= U.S. Naval Institute |location= Annapolis, Maryland |isbn= 1-55750-701-5 |pages=291ff}} According to Clark G. Reynolds' The Fast Carrier and Edward P Stafford's Big E, the Enterprise and Saratoga operated very briefly off Okinawa in February 1945 until Saratoga was detached to cover the escort carrier and amphibious force. Initially, Night Carrier Division Seven operated as a separate carrier task group within Task Force 38 and operated only at night. When {{USS|Bonhomme Richard|CV-31}} arrived, it was integrated into an existing task group, and the commander of Night Carrier Division Seven directed the night operations within that task group.

Carrier Division Seven was re-established at Naval Air Station Alameda, California, on 22 March 1956. The group commander and staff first deployed to the Western Pacific on board {{USS|Bon Homme Richard|CVA-31}} in 1957. USS Coral Sea, fresh from refit, arrived at Alameda on 1 April 1960 and was assigned to Carrier Division Seven. During the Vietnam War, division aircraft carriers operated as part of Task Force 77 from Yankee Station and Dixie Station. During its third Vietnam combat deployment, the {{USS|Coral Sea|CVA-43|2}} implemented a new anti-MiG combat patrol plan developed by the Carrier Division Seven staff.{{cite web | author=Pete Clayton |author2=Robert J. Cressman | title= More Than Just a Ship. . . USS Coral Sea (CV-43), 1946–1990 | url= http://www.usscoralsea.net/pages/mtjas.php | work= Ship's History | publisher= USS Coral Sea Tribute Site | access-date= 15 January 2010 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100527155704/http://www.usscoralsea.net/pages/mtjas.php | archive-date= 27 May 2010 | url-status= dead | df= dmy-all }}{{cite web | title= Significant Dates | url= http://www.usscoralsea.net/pages/dates.php | work= History | publisher= USS Coral Sea Tribute Site | access-date= 15 January 2010 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100131200611/http://usscoralsea.net/pages/dates.php | archive-date= 31 January 2010 | url-status= dead | df= dmy-all }} Other aircraft carriers assigned to the division included {{USS|Ticonderoga|CVA-14|2}}, {{USS|Lexington|CVA-16|2}}, {{USS|Hancock|CVA-19|2}}, {{USS|Kearsarge|CVA-33|2}}, {{USS|Oriskany|CVA-34|2}}, and {{USS|Shangri-La|CVA-38|2}}.{{cite web | title= History | url= http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/ccsg7/Pages/History.aspx | work= COMCARSTRKGRU SEVEN | publisher= U.S. Navy | access-date= 17 January 2011 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120926003357/http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/ccsg7/Pages/History.aspx | archive-date= 26 September 2012 | url-status= dead | df= dmy-all }} On 13 September 1962, Rear Admiral Ralph L. Shifley, Commander, Carrier Division Seven, embarked aboard {{USS|Kitty Hawk|CV-63}} for her first Pacific deployment. In January 1963, the division conducted the major Pacific Fleet exercise 'Red Wheel.'

On 6 April 1964, Rear Admiral William F. Bringle assumed command of Carrier Division Seven. In addition to commanding Carrier Division Seven, Admiral Bringle served as Commander Task Group 77.6, during the period of 29 March, to 29 June 1965 and as Commander Task Force 77 from 28 May, to 27 June 1965.

Carrier Division Seven was re-designated as Carrier Group Seven on 30 June 1973. {{USS|Enterprise|CVN-65}} reached Cubi Point in the Philippines in time for Christmas Eve 1974. An extended deployment in the Indian Ocean lay ahead. "On the morning of 5 February 1975, Enterprise anchored four miles outside of Mombasa, while guided missile destroyer {{USS|Benjamin Stoddert|DDG-22}} and ocean escort {{USS|Rathburne|DE-1057}} moored to buoys.. Two days later, Rear Admiral William L. Harris, Jr., relieved Rear Admiral Owen H. Oberg, as Commander, Carrier Group Seven." After Cyclone Gervais struck Mauritius on 6 February 1975, Enterprise, {{USS|Long Beach|CGN-9}}, and {{USS|Camden|AOE-2}} were sent to provide disaster relief.{{Cite web|title=Enterprise VIII (CVAN-65)|url=https://www.history.navy.mil/content/history/nhhc/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/e/enterprise-cvan-65-viii-1971-1975.html|access-date=2022-02-12|website=NHHC|language=en-US}} In the last days of April 1975 the Enterprise and {{USS|Coral Sea}} attack carrier groups stood off South Vietnam covering Operation Frequent Wind, the final evacuation of Americans and associated Vietnamese from the doomed country.{{Cite web|date=2010-04-29|title=Operation Frequent Wind: April 29-30, 1975|url=https://www.navalhistory.org/2010/04/29/operation-frequent-wind-april-29-30-1975|access-date=2022-02-12|website=Naval History Blog|language=en}} In 1978, the group was homeported at Alameda as part of Commander, Naval Air Forces, Pacific Fleet (COMNAVAIRPAC).{{sfn|Polmar|1978|p=8}} By 1984, as always part of COMNAVAIRPAC, the staff had moved to NAS North Island and controlled {{USS|Ranger|CV-61}}.{{sfn|Polmar|1984|p=16}}

On 2 July 1985, a group change of command ceremony was held on Kitty Hawk{{'s}} flight deck, and Read Admiral Stan Arthur hauled down his flag. Rear Admiral D. M. Brooks then took command of the group, with his flag in Kitty Hawk. On 24 July 1985, Kitty Hawk, with Rear Admiral Brooks, Commander Destroyer Squadron 13, and Carrier Air Wing 9 embarked, departed San Diego to commence its fifteenth Western Pacific deployment. Kitty Hawk spent two days in the Southern California Operating Area on 25–26 July to conduct an abbreviated Operational Readiness Exercise which included AAW defense, long-range conventional strikes and a 39-hour ASW exercise. The group commenced TRANSITEX 85–14 en route to Naval Station Subic Bay in the Philippines on 27 July. Kitty Hawk conducted Exercise Busy Observer, with USAF B-52s simulating

Soviet Tupolev Tu-95 Bear D aircraft on 29 July. An encounter exercise was held with the USS New Jersey Surface Action Group on 1 August and then Carrier Air Wing Nine participated in COPE CANINE 85-02, a Hawaiian air defence exercise, on 2–3 August. USS Pintado then practiced anti-submarine warfare with the group on 3–4 August.

On 9–10 August an ENCOUNTEREX/INCHOPEX was held with {{USS|Constellation|CV-64}} (Battle Group Delta) as they returned from a Western Pacific deployment. On each of these days, Kitty Hawk was monitored by a pair of Soviet Tu-95 aircraft. Kitty Hawk came under the operational control of the U.S. Seventh Fleet on 12 August and transited the Bashi Channel five days later. The ship the operated briefly in the South China Sea.

During 1986, Kitty Hawk was under the group's control from January to 28 June 1986, and then was transferred to Cruiser-Destroyer Group 5 for later work ups, which included READIEX 87–1.[https://web.archive.org/web/20121105084707/http://www.history.navy.mil/shiphist/k/cv-63/1986.pdf USS Kitty Hawk Command History 1986] In 1987, the group controlled Kitty Hawk, which was in the process of shifting to the Atlantic Fleet, and {{USS|Constellation|CV-64}}.Norman Polmar, Ships and Aircraft, Fourteenth Edition, 1987, 19. In 1990–91, the group saw action during the First Gulf War.{{cite web | title= Participating Naval Units | url= http://www.history.navy.mil/wars/dstorm/appenb.htm | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/19980703133018/http://www.history.navy.mil/wars/dstorm/appenb.htm | url-status= dead | archive-date= 3 July 1998 | work= USNAVCENT Data as of 24 April 1991 | publisher= Naval History and Heritage Command | date= 7 October 1997 | access-date=22 January 2012}} Rear Admiral R.J. Zlatoper commanded the group from the carrier Ranger.https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/1991/july/princeton-leaves-war Later, the group made several Middle East deployments, taking part in Operation Southern Watch.

Rear Admiral Thomas A. Mercer commanded the group (aboard Ranger, Midway, and Nimitz) before becoming Commander, Naval Forces Philippines. From the summer of 1992, the guided-missile cruisers {{USS|Long Beach|CGN-9|2}}, {{USS|Halsey|CG-23|2}}, {{USS|Reeves|CG-24|2}}, {{USS|Fox|CG-33|2}}, and {{USS|Truxtun|CGN-35|2}}; Destroyer Squadron 23; Carrier Air Wing Nine; and the carrier {{USS|Nimitz|CVN-68|2}} were assigned as permanent units of the group.{{cite journal |first= Polmar |last= Norman |title= Naval Institute Guide to the Ships and Aircraft of the U.S. Fleet, 18th edition |url= https://archive.org/details/navalinstitutegu0018polm/page/36 |journal= 18th Edition |publisher= Naval Institute Press |location= Annapolis, Maryland |pages= [https://archive.org/details/navalinstitutegu0018polm/page/36 36–40] |isbn= 978-1-59114-685-8 |year= 2005 |access-date= 1 December 2010 }} However the group did not deploy again until 1993.

Carrier Group Seven, led by Rear Admiral Lyle Bien aboard Nimitz, crossed the Pacific Ocean from 2 to 20 December 1995 headed for Hong Kong.USS Ford Command History 1995 Early the next year, as part of the U.S. response to the developing Third Taiwan Straits Crisis, the group transited at high speed from the Persian Gulf to the South China Sea. As of 11 March 1996 Nimitz was taking part in Operation Southern Watch in the Gulf, but a week later the carrier was in the Indian Ocean, en route to South China Sea. Accompanying Nimitz were {{USS|Port Royal|CG-73}}, USS Callaghan (DD 994), USS Oldendorf (DD 972), {{USS|Ford|FFG-54}}, USS Willamette (AO 180), USS Shasta (AE 33) and {{USS|Portsmouth|SSN-707}}.Lijun Sheng, China's Dilemma: The Taiwan Issue, I.B.Tauris, 2001, {{ISBN|978-1-86064-732-1}}, 32. Aircraft from Carrier Air Wing 9 were embarked aboard Nimitz. Nimitz and six additional ships arrived near Taiwan before 23 March 1996 presidential election. The Nimitz battle group received a Meritorious Unit Commendation for these operations, formally for the period 13 December 1995 to 3 May 1996. Later in 1996, Rear Admiral John B. Nathman commanded Carrier Group Seven, the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group and Battle Force FIFTY in the Persian Gulf.This last designation appears to be incorrect. It is likely that this is an incorrect reference to Task Force 50 (Battle Force, Fifth Fleet).

On 26 February 1998, Carrier Group Seven departed Naval Station Norfolk, the commander and staff embarked aboard {{USS|John C. Stennis|CVN-74}}, which was making her maiden deployment.{{cite web |author=Douglas Roulstone |title=1998 Command History |url=http://www.history.navy.mil/shiphist/j/cvn-74/1998.pdf |work=USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74) |publisher=Naval History & Heritage Command |location=Washington Naval Yard |pages=1, 6 |date=29 April 1999 |access-date= 17 October 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110628202053/http://www.history.navy.mil/shiphist/j/cvn-74/1998.pdf |archive-date=2011-06-28}}. See also Proceedings, 'Five Fleets: Around the World With the Nimitz', 1998. The group consisted of the carrier Stennis; Carrier Air Wing Seven; the cruiser {{USS|San Jacinto|CG-56|2}}; the destroyers {{USS|Laboon|DDG-58|2}} and {{USS|Cole|DDG-67|2}}; the destroyer {{USS|Caron|DD-970|2}}; the attack submarines {{USS|Minneapolis-St. Paul |SSN-708|2}} and {{USS|Providence|SSN-719|2}}; and the fast combat support ship {{USNS|Bridge|T-AOE-10|2}}.{{cite web | title= John C. Stennis Strike Group WESTPAC 98 Deployment | url= http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/batgru-74-westpac98.htm | publisher= GlobalSecurity.org | access-date=15 April 2012}}

On 12 November 2001, two months ahead of schedule, the group left for an accelerated Middle East deployment, and became involved in the War in Afghanistan.{{cite web | title= John C. Stennis Strike Group WESTPAC 01 Deployment | url= http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/batgru-74-westpac01.htm | publisher= GlobalSecurity.org | access-date=30 August 2010}} The carrier strike group consisted of the carrier John C. Stennis; Carrier Air Wing Nine; the cruisers {{USS|Lake Champlain|CG-57|2}} and {{USS|Port Royal|CG-73|2}}; destroyers {{USS|Decatur|DDG-73|2}} and {{USS|Elliot|DD-967|2}}; the guided-missile frigate {{USS|Jarrett|FFG-33|2}}; the submarines {{USS|Salt Lake City|SSN-716|2}} and {{USS|Jefferson City|SSN-759|2}}; and the fast combat support ship {{USNS|Bridge|T-AOE-10|2}}. The group later saw action in Operation Anaconda and the Second Gulf War.

From June 2002 to January 2003, Stennis underwent a seven-month refit. On 15 November 2003, Rear Admiral Matt Moffit turned over command of the group to Rear Admiral Patrick M. Walsh.{{cite web |author=Ryan M. Hill | title= Carrier Group 7 Changes Command | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=10692 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20041106155911/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=10692 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 6 November 2004 | work= NNS031120-09 | publisher= USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs | date= 20 November 2003 | access-date=31 August 2010}} On 21 November 2003, the group completed a 26-day Composite Training Unit Exercise.{{cite web| title= Stennis Completes COMPTUEX | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=10887 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20041106155840/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=10887 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 6 November 2004 | work= NNS031204 | publisher= USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs | date= 4 December 2003 | access-date=20 April 2009}}

Since 1956, aircraft carriers assigned to the group and division not already mentioned have included {{USS|Midway|CVA-41|2}}, {{USS|Coral Sea|CVA-43|2}}, {{USS|Kitty Hawk|CVA-63|2}}, {{USS|Saratoga|CVA-60|2}}, {{USS|Constellation|CVA-64|2}}, {{USS|Enterprise|CVAN-65|2}}, and {{USS|America|CVA-66|2}}.

{{main|Carrier Strike Group Seven 2004–2006 operations}}

File:US Navy 040625-N-9769P-245 Ships from the United States and Canada navigate around the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) while underway in the Pacific Ocean during a multi-national photo exercise.jpg

In May 2004, the battle group deployed for the Western Pacific. During the deployment, the group consisted of the cruiser Lake Champlain, the replenishment ship Rainier, the frigate Ford, the destroyer Howard, and the submarine Salt Lake City.{{cite web| author= Journalist 2nd Class Gabriel Owens, USN | title= Stennis Leaves for Deployment | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=13464 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20041106155823/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=13464 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 6 November 2004 | work= NNS040524-16 | publisher= USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs | date= 24 May 2004 | access-date=20 April 2009}} During the deployment, the group took part in exercises Northern Edge 2004, JASEX 2004, and RIMPAC 2004.{{cite web| title= John C. Stennis Strike Group WESTPAC 04 Deployment | url= http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/batgru-74-westpac04.htm | publisher= GlobalSecurity.org | access-date=31 August 2010}} Also in 2004 the group provided humanitarian relief after the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake.

Carrier Group Seven was re-designated as Carrier Strike Group Seven on 1 October 2004.{{cite web |author1=Curtis A. Utz |author2=Mark L. Evans |title= The Year in Review 2004 |url= http://www.thefreelibrary.com/The+year+in+review+2004.-a0135373826 |work= Naval Aviation News |publisher= U.S. Navy |location= Washington, DC |date= July–August 2005 |access-date=9 November 2010 |quote= Aviation Command Changes, 2004}} Rear Admiral Michael H. Miller took command of the group on 15 April 2005. The aircraft carrier {{USS|Ronald Reagan|CVN-76|2}} became the new group flagship in 2005 after the John C. Stennis changed its homeport.

On 17 October 2005, the group departed Naval Base San Diego, California to begin its pre-deployment Composite Training Unit Exercise.{{cite web | author= Chief Journalist Donnie Ryan and Photographer's Mate 2nd Class (AW) Anthony Walker | title= USS Ronald Reagan, Carrier Strike Group 7 Begin COMPTUEX | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20719 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20060408065544/https://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20719 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 8 April 2006 | work= NNS051024-12 | publisher= Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 25 October 2005 | access-date=20 December 2011}} The exercise was designed to train the whole carrier strike group to function as one, and consisted of two distinct phases evaluated by Commander, Strike Force Training Pacific. In addition to Carrier Strike Group Seven, several Canadian Navy ships also participated in the exercise, including the destroyer {{HMCS|Algonquin|DDG 283|2}}; the frigates {{HMCS|Vancouver|FFH 331|2}}, {{HMCS|Calgary|FFH 335|2}}, and {{HMCS|Ottawa|FFH 341|2}}; and the replenishment tanker {{HMCS|Protecteur|AOR 509|2}}.{{cite web | title= USS Ronald Reagan, Carrier Strike Group 7 Return from COMPTUEX | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20978 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20060408064843/https://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=20978 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 8 April 2006 | work= NNS051110-14 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 10 November 2005 | access-date=20 December 2011}} On 6 December 2005, the group departed San Diego for its final predeployment exercise, Joint Task Force Exercise 06-2 (JTFEX 06-2) off the coast of southern California. The exercise was completed on 17 December 2005.{{cite web | author= Chief Journalist (SW) Donnie Ryan, USN | title= Ronald Reagan Strike Group Returns Following Successful JTFEX | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21444 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20060408063908/https://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21444 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 8 April 2006 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 17 December 2005 | access-date=20 December 2011}} During this exercise, later reports indicate the leased Swedish AIP attack submarine {{HSwMS|Gotland|Gtd|6}} managed to penetrate the defences of the group and 'sink' the Ronald Reagan.{{Cite web|url=http://www.murdoconline.net/archives/3238.html|title=Payday Loans Online - Offer Extra Cash|access-date=21 June 2012|archive-date=25 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140325082812/http://www.murdoconline.net/archives/3238.html|url-status=dead}}

The group deployed to the Middle East on 4 January 2006. Escorts for the deployment included Lake Champlain, McCampbell, Paul Hamilton, and Decatur, accompanied by Rainier. Also part of the group for the deployment was United States Navy EOD Unit 11, Det. 15.{{cite web | title= USS Ronald Reagan Departs on Maiden Deployment | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21569 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20120630101659/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=21569 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 30 June 2012 | work= NNS060104-03 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 4 January 2006 | access-date=20 December 2012}} Carrier Air Wing Fourteen included strike fighter squadrons VFA-22, VFA-25, VFA-113, VFA-115, tactical electronic warfare squadron VAQ-139, airborne early warning squadron VAW-113, helicopter squadron HS-4, and a detachment from logistics unit VRC-30. Off Hawaii, the group completed a four-day anti-submarine warfare exercise on 12 January 2006.{{cite web | title= Reagan Carrier Strike Group Wraps Up Successful ASW Exercise | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22012 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20060408063540/https://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22012 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 8 April 2006 | work= NNS060120-04 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 20 January 2006 | access-date=21 December 2011}} During the exercise, an improved sonar system installed in both participating destroyers was used for the first time. The group entered the U.S. Fifth Fleet area on 18 February 2006, and fleet commander Vice Admiral Patrick M. Walsh visited Reagan on 27 February 2006.{{cite web | author= Chief Journalist Donnie W. Ryan | title= Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet Welcomes Reagan Strike Group to Persian Gulf Area of Operations | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22493 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20060406045707/https://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=22493 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 6 April 2006 | work= NNS060228-11 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 28 February 2006 | access-date=21 December 2011}} Carrier Strike Group Seven completed operations with the Fifth Fleet on 29 May 2006.{{cite web | author= Chief Journalist Donnie Ryan | title= Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group Concludes Operations in Persian Gulf | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=23895 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20060531072847/https://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=23895 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 31 May 2006 | work= NNS060530-06 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 30 May 2006 | access-date=21 December 2011}} During the deployment, Carrier Air Wing Fourteen flew about 2940 sorties over Iraq and Afghanistan. The group then participated in Valiant Shield 2006, a major U.S. Pacific Command joint exercise. Valiant Shield, held near Guam from 19–23 June 2006, involved three carrier strike groups: Carrier Strike Group Five, Carrier Strike Group Seven, and Carrier Strike Group Nine.

On 9 November 2006, Carrier Strike Group Seven departed San Diego to sustain multi-ship warfare skills through carrying out Joint Task Force Exercise 07-1 (JTFEX 07-1).{{cite web | author= Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (AW) Thomas C. Kuhl, USN | title= Ronald Reagan, CVW-14 Underway for Sustainment Training During JTFEX 07-1 | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26565 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20061121203340/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26565 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 21 November 2006 | work= NNS061113-26 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 13 November 2006 | access-date=22 December 2011}} During the exercise, between 12–16 November 2006, Carrier Strike Group Seven combined with Carrier Strike Group Three, to form Carrier Task Force 150 under the overall command of Rear Admiral Kevin Quinn, Commander, Carrier Strike Group Three.{{cite web | author= Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Chris Fowler | title= Stennis, Reagan Strike Groups Join Forces, Make Carrier Task Force | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26695 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20061121193544/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=26695 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 21 November 2006 | work= NNS061120-06 | publisher= USS John C. Stennis Public Affairs | date= 20 November 2006 | access-date=22 December 2011}} This was the first time the two groups had operated together. JTFEX 07-1 was not a normal pre-deployment exercise; it aimed to sustain multi-ship warfighting skills in the event either strike group had to make an unexpected deployment. To maintain all the skills necessary to fight the entire two-carrier group together, the exercise tested individual ships (in general quarters and usage of weapons), the two carrier air wings, and the ships and aircraft of the strike group(s) fighting as a team. With the two carrier air wings operating together, the normal 12-hour cycle of flight operations could be doubled to a continuous 24-hour cycle.

Surface warships operating with CTF-150 practiced the full spectrum of surface warfare scenarios. Led by the commodore of Destroyer Squadron 21 (DESRON-21) acting as CTF-150s Sea Combat Commander (SCC), the surface warships conducted sustained operations in maritime interdiction operations (MIO), anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASUW), and mine warfare (MW). ASW continued to be the top war-fighting priority.

{{main|Carrier Strike Group Seven 2007–2009 operations}}

On 25 January 2007 Rear Admiral Charles W. Martoglio relieved Rear Admiral Miller,{{cite web | title= Carrier Strike Group 7 Holds Change of Command | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27478 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070615100958/https://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27478 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 15 June 2007 | work= NNS070126-12 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 26 January 2007 | access-date=22 December 2011}} and commanded the group until 16 November 2007, when he was relieved himself by Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup. Following Wisecup, Rear Admiral Scott P. Hebner held command from 27 October 2008 to 27 October 2009.

On 27 January 2007, the group departed from San Diego for its Western Pacific surge deployment. The group operated in the western Pacific while Carrier Strike Group Five's flagship, {{USS|Kitty Hawk|CV-63}}, began maintenance in Yokosuka, Japan.{{cite web | author= MCS 1/c James E. Foehl | title= USS Russell, USS Paul Hamilton Surge as Part of Fleet Response Plan | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27635 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070615034810/https://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=27635 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 15 June 2007 | publisher= Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs | date= 6 February 2007 | access-date=22 December 2011}} Between 16–18 March 2007, the group took part in a passing exercise with the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force in the Philippine Sea. Ronald Reagan also conducted a fueling at sea with each of the four JMSDF ships.{{cite web | author= Chief Mass Communication Specialist Donnie Ryan | title= Ronald Reagan Strike Group Operates with JMSDF Ships | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=28376 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070328223909/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=28376 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 28 March 2007 | work= NNS070318-02 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 18 March 2007 | access-date=22 December 2011}} On 25 March 2007, the group began its involvement in Exercise RSOI/Foal Eagle 2007, a seven-day combined/joint exercise conducted annually involving forces from both the United States and the Republic of Korea. On 7 April 2007, Reagan concluded its three-day munitions offload to the Military Sealift Command ammunition ship {{USS|Flint|AE-32|2}}, signifying the end of its Seventh Fleet deployment.{{Citation needed|date=September 2022}} The group returned to North Island on 20 April 2007. Amongst the escorts for the deployment were {{USS|Lake Champlain|CG-57}}, {{USS|Paul Hamilton|DDG-60}}, and {{USS|Russell|DDG-59}}.

Following the group's return in April 2007, Ronald Reagan entered a six-month, $150-million refit.{{cite web | title= Ronald Reagan Completes Six-Month Maintenance Period and Sea Trials Ahead of Schedule | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=32932 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20121213000834/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=32932 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 13 December 2012 | work= NNS071031-15 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 31 October 2007 | access-date=23 December 2011}} On 31 October 2007, Ronald Reagan returned to North Island, following two days of sea trials to evaluate its material readiness to rejoin the fleet. On 9 November 2007, Reagan returned to Naval Air Station North Island, California, after completing its flight deck certification.{{cite web | title= Ronald Reagan Earns Flight Deck Certification | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=33201 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20120805051756/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=33201 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 5 August 2012 | work= NNS071109-20 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 9 November 2007 | access-date=24 December 2011}}

On 16 November 2007, Rear Admiral James P. Wisecup relieved Rear Admiral Charles W. Martoglio as group commander. On 27 November 2007, the {{USS|Ronald Reagan|CVN-76|2}} left San Diego to carry out their Tailored Ship's Training Assessment, designed to prepare the ship and embarked air wing for combat operations.{{cite web | title= Ronald Reagan and CVW 14 Underway for TSTA/FEP | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=33582 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20121212222137/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=33582 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 12 December 2012 | work= NNS071129-15 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 29 November 2007 | access-date=26 December 2011}} Joining the Reagan and CVW-14 were the guided-missile cruiser {{USS|Chancellorsville|CG-62|2}}; the guided-missile destroyers {{USS|Gridley|DDG 101|2}} and {{USS|Howard|DDG-83|2}}; and the guided-missile frigate {{USS|Thach|FFG-43|2}}.{{cite web | title= Ronald Reagan and HS-4 Medevac 14 Year-Old Girl From Cruise Ship | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=33932 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20071218200324/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=33932 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 18 December 2007 | work= NNS071215-02 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 15 December 2007 | access-date=26 December 2011}}{{cite web | title= Ronald Reagan Team Scores Outstanding During TSTA/FEP | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=33996 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080116090735/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=33996 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 16 January 2008 | work= NNS071218-16 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 18 December 2007 | access-date=26 December 2011}}

File:US Navy 071215-N-3659B-065 Medical personnel aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) transfer a patient from an HH-60H Seahawk.jpg

During the exercises, during the early morning hours of 15 December 2007, Ronald Reagan responded to a medical emergency aboard the Bermuda-flagged cruise ship Dawn Princess off the coast of southern Baja California, Mexico. Two HH-60 helicopters from HS-2 were dispatched to carry out an emergency medical evacuation of a 14-year-old American girl back to the carrier. Once aboard the Reagan (pictured), an emergency appendectomy was performed by the ship's medical department.{{cite web | author= Chief Mass Communication Specialist Donnie Ryan and Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Blachly | title= Princess Cruise Officials Recognizes Ronald Reagan and HS-4 for Successful Medical Evacuation | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=34196 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080116090740/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=34196 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 16 January 2008 | work= NNS080107-02 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 8 January 2008 | access-date=26 December 2011}} The Reagan returned to NAS San Diego on 18 December 2007, having achieved an outstanding score during the workup.

On 17 March 2008, the group departed NAS North Island, to conduct its Composite Training Unit Exercise.{{cite web | author= MCS 2/c Jennifer Kimball | title= Ronald Reagan Strike Group Underway for COMPTUEX | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=35688 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20121212211000/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=35688 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 12 December 2012 | work= NNS080324-01 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 24 March 2008 | access-date=26 December 2011}} The exercise was designed to test the strike group's ability to operate in complex, hostile environments as a single unit, and was evaluated by Commander, Strike Force Training Pacific. On 7 April 2008, the group returned to its home base of NAS North Island. Four days later, on 11 April 2008, the group left port again to begin Joint Task Force Exercise 08-5. Joining the Reagan and CVW-14 were the guided-missile cruiser Chancellorsville; the guided-missile destroyers Gridley (pictured), Howard, and {{USS|Decatur|DDG-73|2}}; and the guided-missile frigate Thach.{{cite web | title= Ronald Reagan Strike Group Underway for JTFEX 08-5 | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=36383 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20121212030736/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=36383 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 12 December 2012 | work= NNS080412-04 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 12 April 2008 | access-date=26 December 2011}} The exercise was the final preparative step for the 2008 deployment.

On 22 April 2008, the group returned to base.

On 19 May 2008, the group departed from NAS North Island for its 2008 Western Pacific/Middle East deployment.{{cite web | author= MCS 1/c Bill Larned | title= USS Ronald Reagan Departs on Third Deployment | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37278 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080601205535/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37278 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 1 June 2008 | work= NNS080520-21 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 20 May 2008 | access-date=26 December 2011}} Escorts for the deployment included {{USS|Chancellorsville|CG-62}}, {{USS|Gridley|DDG-101}}, {{USS|Howard|DDG-83}}, {{USS|Decatur|DDG-73}} and {{USS|Thach|FFG-43}}. On 27 May 2008, the group began an undersea warfare exercise in the waters off Hawaii which included two attack submarines.{{cite web | author= Lt. Ron Flanders, USN | title= Carrier Strike Group 7 Hones Anti-Submarine Warfare Skills in USWEX | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37484 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20121212015037/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=37484 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 12 December 2012 | work= NNS080529-09 | publisher= Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs | date= 29 May 2008 | access-date=26 December 2011}}

The group cut short its port visit to Hong Kong and was ordered to provide humanitarian assistance for the island of Panay in the Philippines, in the aftermath of Typhoon Fengshen.{{cite web | title= Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group Returns Home After Deployment | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41128 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081230091427/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41128 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 30 December 2008 | work= NNS081125-26 | publisher= Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs | date= 25 November 2008 | access-date=27 December 2011}} The group's helicopters made 19 relief sorties to deliver food and bottled water to areas most affected by Typhoon Fengshen, and C-2 Greyhounds from the Reagan flew in additional supplies. In addition to the relief flights, a four-man engineering team from the Ronald Reagan engineers repaired Iloilo City's hospital generators damaged by the floods. After bringing a mud-damaged fuel pump aboard the ship for repair, the team returned to Iloilo City's Barotac Viejo Hospital and restored electrical power.{{cite web | title= U.S. Ambassador to Philippines Visits USS Ronald Reagan | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38135 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20121212212830/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=38135 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 12 December 2012 | work= NNS080630-02 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 30 June 2008 | access-date=27 December 2011}} On 3 July 2008, the group departed the Sulu Sea and Panay. During its relief mission, the strike group flew 332 sorties over eight consecutive days delivering more than 235,000 kg of fresh water, rice, and medical supplies to typhoon victims in Panay. Soon afterwards, {{USS|Howard|DDG-83|6}} was detached to take part on the fourth annual Southeast Asia Cooperation Against Terrorism (SEACAT) exercise which began in Singapore on 18 August 2008.{{cite web | author= Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Dan Meaney | title= Seventh Annual SEACAT Exercise Begins | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39194 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20120805111708/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39194 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 5 August 2012 | work= NNS080819-03 | publisher= Commander Task Force 73 Public Affairs | date= 19 August 2008 | access-date=27 December 2011}}

The group then participated in Exercise Malabar 2008 with the Indian Navy from 20–24 October 2008. The Arabian Sea exercise involved surface, air and sub-surface training.{{Citation needed|date=September 2022}} On 28 August 2008, the group relieved Carrier Strike Group Nine and launched its first sorties supporting U.S. and coalition ground forces of the International Security Assistance Force.{{cite web | author= Lt. Ron Flanders | title= Reagan Launches First Sorties in Support of OEF | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39416 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20121212235514/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=39416 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 12 December 2012 | work= NNS080829-08 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 29 August 2008 | access-date=27 December 2012}} A total of more than 1,150 ground support sorties were flown during the deployment. Meanwhile, Decatur and Thach joined Combined Task Force 152 operating in the Persian Gulf, while the guided-missile destroyers Gridley and Howard patrolled the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden as part of Combined Task Force 150.

On 28 May 2009, the group departed San Diego, California, to begin its 2009 Western Pacific/Middle East deployment.{{cite web | title= USS Ronald Reagan Deploys | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=45759 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090531104751/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=45759 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 31 May 2009 | work= NNS090528-13 | publisher= Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs | date= 28 May 2009 | access-date=27 December 2011}} The group entered the U.S. Seventh Fleet's area on 9 June 2009.{{cite web | title= Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group 7 Enters 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=46073 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20121212030344/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=46073 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 12 December 2012 | work= NNS090610-14 | publisher= Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs | date= 10 June 2009 | access-date=27 December 2011}}

During the deployment, Carrier Air Wing Fourteen flew more than 1,600 sorties supporting troops in Afghanistan. The destroyers Decatur, Howard, and Gridley, and the frigate Thach, supported maritime security operations in the Persian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, Gulf of Aden, and Red Sea.{{cite web | title= Reagan Relieves Eisenhower, Launches Sorties in Support of OEF | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=46742 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090718105605/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=46742 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 18 July 2009 | work= NNS090706-03 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan and USS Eisenhower Public Affairs | date= 6 July 2009 | access-date=27 December 2012}} For example, during July 2009, the Thatch was assigned by Commander, Task Group Iraqi Maritime (CTG-IM) to serve as a picket ship patrolling the Al Basrah Oil Terminal in the northern Persian Gulf.{{cite web | author= Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW) Joseph M. Buliavac, USN | title= USS Thach Helps Protect Iraqi Infrastructure in North Arabian Gulf | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=47854 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090903163449/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=47854 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 3 September 2009 | work= NNS090825-04 | publisher= NAVCENT/5th Fleet | date= 25 August 2009 | access-date=28 December 2011}} On 18 September 2009, Rear Admiral Thomas S. Rowden relieved Rear Admiral Hebner as strike group commander. The group returned to its home base at NAS North Island on 31 October 2009.

File:US Navy 100724-N-5684M-823 USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) transits the Pacific Ocean with ships assigned to Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2010 combined task force as part of a photo exercise north of Hawaii.jpg

File:HH-60H delivering relief supplies to Carnival Splendor 2010-11-09.jpg

In late 2009 a six-month maintenance period on the {{USS|Ronald Reagan|CVN-76|2}} began at NAS North Island.{{cite web | title= Norfolk Naval Shipyard Completes CVN 76's Planned Incremental Availability | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=53501 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20121212212426/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=53501 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 12 December 2012 | work= NNS100520-1 | publisher= Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs | date= 20 May 2010 | access-date=28 December 2011}} Ship refurbishments ranged from hi-tech combat systems and firefighting equipment to improved ship's laundry services and living spaces.{{citation | author= Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Torrey W. Lee, USN | title= Ronald Reagan Ready for Sea After Successful Sea Trials | work= NNS100521-03 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 21 May 2010 }} On 18 May 2010, Ronald Reagan departed NAS North Island for sea trials.{{Citation needed|date=September 2022}} The Reagan returned after the sea trials to NAS North Island on 19 May 2010. Reagan conducted flight deck certification from 2 June 2010.{{cite web | author= Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Torrey W. Lee, USN | title= Ronald Reagan Begins Flight Deck Certification | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=53819 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20120805140714/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=53819 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 5 August 2012 | work= NNS100603-15 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 3 June 2010 | access-date=28 December 2011}}

On 28 June 2010, Ronald Reagan arrived in Pearl Harbor to participate in Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2010. Ronald Reagan was the only aircraft carrier to participate (pictured). During the in-port phase of RIMPAC, officers and crew of the 14 participating navies interacted in receptions, meetings, and athletic events.{{cite web | author= Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Aaron Stevens, USN | title= USS Ronald Reagan Arrives in Hawaii for RIMPAC 2010 | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=54347 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20120805070957/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=54347 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 5 August 2012 | work= NNS100630-09 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 30 June 2010 | access-date=28 December 2011}} At sea such as live fire gunnery and missile exercises; maritime interdiction and vessel boardings, and anti-surface warfare, undersea warfare, and air defense training serials took place followed by scenario exercises in Phase III.{{cite web | author= Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Robert Stirrup, USN | title= Ships Depart Pearl Harbor for RIMPAC 2010 Exercises | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=54554 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100713012259/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=54554 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 13 July 2010 | work= NNS100708-18 | publisher= Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs | date= 9 July 2010 | access-date=28 December 2011}} During RIMPAC 2010, naval personnel from Singapore, Japan, Australia, Chile, Peru, and Colombia directed combat exercises while aboard the Reagan. They managed anti-submarine warfare and surface warfare for the group and the entire RIMPAC force.{{cite web | author= Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Stephen Votaw, USN | title= USS Ronald Reagan Hosts International Navies for Sea Combat Control Exercises During RIMPAC 2010 | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=54880 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20120805110833/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=54880 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 5 August 2012 | work= NNS100724-06 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 24 July 2010| access-date=28 December 2011}} Also, Reagan conducted a live RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile launch, the first since 2007.

On 30 July 2010, RIMPAC 2010 ended with a Pearl Harbor press conference.{{cite web | author= Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Robert Stirrup, USN | title= RIMPAC 2010 Officially Concludes as Ships Return to Pearl Harbor | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=55058 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20121212040450/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=55058 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 12 December 2012 | work= NNS100802-16 | publisher= Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs | date= 2 August 2010 | access-date=13 January 2012}} A reception for over 1,500 participants, distinguished visitors and special guests was held in the Reagan's hangar bay. On 8 August 2010, she returned to her homeport after a nearly two-month underway period.

On 18 October 2010 Ronald Reagan departed for its Composite Training Unit Exercise.{{Citation needed|date=September 2022}} Over the next three weeks, flight operations were conducted nearly continuously under simulated combat conditions. Ronald Reagan also simulated a straits transit with four ships from the strike group, participated in three opposed replenishments at sea, a vertical replenishment, and ran many general quarters and man overboard drills.{{cite web | author= MCS 3rd Class Dylan McCord | title= USS Ronald Reagan Completes COMPTUEX | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=57196 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110901034235/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=57196 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 1 September 2011 | work= NNS101115-01 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 15 November 2010 | access-date=28 December 2011}} On 9 November 2010, the Reagan was diverted to provide assistance to the disabled cruise ship Carnival Splendor (pictured). On 14 November, the Ronald Reagan and its embarked carrier air wing completed its COMPTUEX successfully, and it returned to port on 17 December 2010.

File:US Navy 110418-N-1004S-979 Capt. Capt. Kevin Mannix, deputy commander of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 14, lands an F-A-18 Hornet aboard the aircraft carr.jpg

In February 2011, Rear Admiral Robert P. Girrier took command of the group. On 2 February 2011, the group departed NAS North Island for its Joint Task Force Exercise final deployment preparations. On 5 March 2011 the group completed the JTFEX, and began its 2011 deployment.

Carrier Strike Group Seven entered the U.S. Seventh Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) on 9 March 2011.{{cite web | title= Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group Enters 7th Fleet AOR | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=58983 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110310155447/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=58983 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 10 March 2011 | work= NNS110309-01 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 9 March 2011 | access-date=28 December 2011}}

On 9 May 2011, Carrier Strike Group Seven entered the U.S. Fifth Fleet's area of responsibility, and Carrier Air Wing Fourteen (CVW-14) launched its first combat sorties in support of Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan (OEF-A) (pictured).{{cite web | title= USS Ronald Reagan Arrives in 5th Fleet | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60236 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110513225729/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=60236 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 13 May 2011 | work= NNS110509-02 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 9 May 2011 | access-date=29 December 2011}} On 9 May 2011, the group entered the U.S. Fifth Fleet area, and its air wing began to launch combat sorties against the Taliban and al-Qaeda in Afghanistan.{{Citation needed|date=September 2022}} U.S. Army liaison officers were embarked to coordinate with coalition ground troops.{{cite web | author= MCS 3/c Alexander Tidd | title= U.S. Army Ground Liaison Officers Embark Reagan | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61195 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20121212030810/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61195 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 12 December 2012 | work= NNS110623-02 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 23 June 2011 | access-date=30 December 2011}} The carrier strike group launched over 900 air sorties supporting ground forces in Afghanistan.{{cite web | author= Gretel C. Kovach | title= Carrier Reagan docks in home port, San Diego, Helped with Japan tsunami relief, supported war efforts | url= http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/sep/08/carrier-ronald-reagan-due-home-after-eventful-depl/ |work=The San Diego Union-Tribune | date= 7 September 2011 | access-date=29 December 2011}}

During a visit to the carrier Ronald Reagan on 15 June 2011, Fifth Fleet commander Vice Admiral Mark I. Fox noted the contribution that strike group made:

:You are conducting operations to support our troops on the ground every single day from the flight deck of this ship. I am truly impressed with the way that the entire CSG has conducted its operation; you guys have been hitting it out of the ballpark.{{cite web | author= Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kyle Carlstrom, USN | title= Commander, U.S 5th Fleet Visits Ronald Reagan | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61152 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20130219021322/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=61152 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 19 February 2013 | work= NNS110621-08 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 21 June 2011 | access-date=30 December 2011}}

Carrier Strike Group Seven returned to its home base Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado, California, on 9 September 2011, completing its 2011 WESTPAC deployment.{{cite web | title= USS Ronald Reagan Returns To San Diego, USS Chancellorsville, USS Preble Also Returned To Port| url= http://www.10news.com/news/29128373/detail.html | work= San Diego News | publisher= KGTV | date= 9 September 2011 | access-date=29 December 2011}}{{cite web | author= Gretel C. Kovach | title= Navy and Marine pilots fly home, as carrier Ronald Reagan returns to San Diego | url= http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2011/sep/07/navy-and-marine-pilots-fly-home-carrier-ronald-rea/ | series= Military & Defense |work=The San Diego Union-Tribune | date= 7 September 2011 | access-date=29 December 2011}} A deployment highlight occurred on 18 April 2011 when Captain Kevin "Nix" Mannix made his 1,000th arrested landing when he landed his F/A-18F Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron 154 on the flight deck of the Ronald Reagan (pictured). Captain Mannix was the deputy commander of Carrier Air Wing 14.{{cite web | author= MCS 2/c Josh Cassatt | title= Air Wing Deputy Commander Traps Major Milestone | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=59829 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20121212221252/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=59829 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 12 December 2012 | work= NNS110418-08 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 18 April 2011 | access-date=29 December 2011}}

File:US Navy 110321-N-5503T-301 A CH-46E Sea Knight helicopter lifts off the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76).jpg

File:US Navy 110410-N-IC111-115 The aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) and ships from the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group and the Indian nav.jpg

In the aftermath of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, Carrier Strike Group Seven was dispatched to take part in the U.S. military relief effort, Operation Tomodachi. It appears that the unplanned Japan disaster relief operations meant the carrier strike group's planned participation in Exercise Key Resolve/Foal Eagle 2011 in Korea was cancelled.{{cite news | author= Ashley Rowland | title= U.S. carrier reportedly to join Key resolve/Foal Eagle exercise | url= http://www.stripes.com/news/pacific/korea/u-s-carrier-reportedly-to-join-key-resolve-foal-eagle-exercise-1.134856 | newspaper= Stars and Stripes | date= 15 February 2011 | access-date=15 February 2011}} A planned port call to Busan, in South Korea was cancelled, and the group was the first U.S. naval force to arrive. It arrived off the east coast of Honshu on 13 March 2011 and immediately began supporting relief operations.

Ronald Reagan served as a platform for refueling Japan Self Defense Force and other helicopters involved in rescue and recovery efforts ashore (pictured).{{Citation needed|date=September 2022}} Chancellorsville also began providing relief support while operating off the coast of Miyagi Prefecture.{{Citation needed|date=September 2022}} Preble provided more than 700 pounds of supplies to earthquake and tsunami survivors, and also used its embarked helicopters to survey the coastline.{{cite web |author1=Lt. j.g. Anna Barcus |author2=Ensign Katherine O'Donnell | title= USS Preble Contributes to Humanitarian Efforts in Japan | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=59092 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20120805080425/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=59092 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 5 August 2012 | work= NNS110315-01 | publisher= USS Preble Public Affairs | date= 15 May 2011 | access-date=30 December 2011}}

Approaching Sendai, Japan on 13 March 2011, sensors aboard Reagan detected nuclear radiation. Reagan's nuclear-trained personnel established a Radiation Control Central in response. Ten days later, on 23 March 2011, the Reagan conducted a fresh water washdown on its flight deck and embarked aircraft, to remove any traces of radioactive contamination.{{Citation needed|date=September 2022}}

On 4 April 2011, Carrier Strike Group Seven concluded its involvement in Operation Tomodachi after being thanked by Japanese Defense Minister Toshimi Kitazawa and U.S. ambassador to Japan John Roos during a visit to the Reagan.{{cite web | author= Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Josh Cassatt, USN | title= Japanese, U.S. Dignitaries, Senior Military Leaders Thank Ronald Reagan | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=59567 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110726020409/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=59567 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 26 July 2011 | work= NNS110405-06 | publisher= USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs | date= 5 April 2011 | access-date=29 December 2011}}

Because of its involvement in Operation Tomodachi, the group was able to participate in the U.S./Indian Exercise Malabar 2011 (pictured) between 2–9 April 2011.{{cite web | author= Mass Communication Specialist Aaron M. Pineda | title= Malabar 2011 Enters Final Phase | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=59685 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110415193313/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=59685 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 15 April 2011 | work= NNS110410-01 | publisher= U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs | date= 10 April 2011 | access-date=28 December 2011}} It was held east of the Luzon Strait, and east of Okinawa. U.S. naval units initially included guided-missile destroyers {{USS|Sterett|DDG-104|2}} and {{USS|Stethem|DDG-63|2}}; the guided-missile frigate {{USS|Reuben James|FFG-57|2}}; and a nuclear powered attack submarine. Indian naval units included the guided-missile destroyers {{ship|INS|Delhi|D61|2}}, {{ship|INS|Ranvijay|D55|2}}, and {{ship|INS|Ranvir|D54}}; the corvette {{ship|INS|Kirch|P62}}; and the replenishment tanker Jyoti.{{cite web | title= Seventh Fleet to Conduct Exercise Malabar with Indian Navy | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=59538 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110419113407/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=59538 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 19 April 2011 | work= NNS110402-12 | publisher= U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs | date= 2 April 2011 | access-date=28 December 2011}}{{cite web | author= Mass Communication Specialist Aaron M. Pineda | title= U.S., Indian Navies Kick Off Malabar 2011 | url= http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=59568 | archive-url= https://archive.today/20120805052210/http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=59568 | url-status= dead | archive-date= 5 August 2012 | work= NNS110405-08 | publisher= U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs | date= 10 April 2011 | access-date=28 February 2011}}

A deployment highlight occurred on 18 April 2011 when Captain Kevin "Nix" Mannix made his 1,000th arrested landing when he landed his F/A-18F Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron 154 on the flight deck of the Ronald Reagan (pictured). Captain Mannix was the deputy commander of Carrier Air Wing 14.

;2007 deployment

No changes in the air wing between 2006 & 2007; only change before 2008 deployment being the VAW.

;2008 deployment

;2009 deployment

;2006 deployment

;2007 deployment

;2008 deployment

;2009 deployment

;2011 deployment

On 1 August 2011 the Navy announced that Carrier Strike Group Seven was scheduled for deactivation effective 30 December 2011.{{cite web | title= Change in Permanent Duty Station for Carrier Strike Group Nine | url= http://doni.daps.dla.mil/Directives/05000%20General%20Management%20Security%20and%20Safety%20Services/05-400%20Organization%20and%20Functional%20Support%20Services/5400.8546.pdf | work= OPNAV Notice 5400 Ser DNS-33/llU228546 | publisher= United States Navy | date= 1 August 2011 | access-date= 9 September 2011 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120322142914/http://doni.daps.dla.mil/Directives/05000%20General%20Management%20Security%20and%20Safety%20Services/05-400%20Organization%20and%20Functional%20Support%20Services/5400.8546.pdf | archive-date= 22 March 2012 | url-status= dead | df= dmy-all }} Following the de-activation of Carrier Strike Group Seven, Ronald Reagan was reassigned as the flagship for Carrier Strike Group Nine. At the time of its disestablishment in 2011, Carrier Strike Group Seven was composed of the following units:{{cite web|title=About US |url=http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/ccsg7/Pages/AboutUs.aspx |publisher=COMCARSTRKGRU SEVEN |year=2011 |access-date=29 December 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120925070619/http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/ccsg7/Pages/AboutUs.aspx |archive-date=25 September 2012 }}

• {{USS|Ronald Reagan|CVN-76}}, flagship
• Carrier Air Wing Fourteen
• {{USS|Chancellorsville|CG-62}}
• Destroyer Squadron Seven:
• {{USS|Gridley|DDG-101}}
• {{USS|Howard|DDG-83}}
• {{USS|Decatur|DDG-73}}
• {{USS|Benfold|DDG-65}}
• {{USS|Thach|FFG-43}}

In total, aircraft carriers assigned to the formation made a total of 34 deployments to the Western Pacific Ocean and Persian Gulf.

;Footnotes

{{Reflist|group=Note}}

;Citations

{{Reflist|30em}}

• {{cite journal |last= Morison |first= Samuel Loring |author-link= Samuel Loring Morison |date=May 2009 |title= U.S. Naval Battle Force Changes 1 January 2008–31 December 2008: Aircraft Carrier Air Wing Assignments and Composition as of 17 Feb 2009 |journal= Naval Institute Proceedings |volume= 135 |issue= 5 |pages= 118–120 |issn= 0041-798X |url= http://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2009-05 |access-date=26 August 2010 |quote=Registration required.}}
• {{cite journal|author-mask=2|last= Morison |first= Samuel Loring |author-link= Samuel Loring Morison |date=May 2010 |title= U.S. Naval Battle Force Changes 1 January 2009–31 December 2009: Aircraft Carrier Air Wing Assignments and Composition as of 1 March 2010 |journal= Naval Institute Proceedings |volume= 136 |issue= 5 |pages= 106–116 |issn= 0041-798X |url= http://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2010-05 |access-date=29 August 2010 |quote=Registration required.}}
• {{cite journal|author-mask=2 |last= Morison |first= Samuel Loring |author-link= Samuel Loring Morison |date=May 2011 |title= U.S. Naval Battle Force Changes 1 January 2010–31 December 2010: Aircraft Carrier Air Wing Assignments and Composition as of 1 March 2011 |journal= Naval Institute Proceedings |volume= 137 |issue= 5 |pages= 117–120 |issn= 0041-798X |url= http://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2011-05 |access-date=29 August 2010 |quote=Registration required.}}
• {{cite book|first=Norman|last=Polmar|title=Ships and Aircraft of the U.S. Fleet, Thirteenth Edition|date=1984|publisher=United States Naval Institute}}
• {{cite book|first=Norman|last=Polmar|title=Ships and Aircraft of the U.S. Fleet, Eleventh Edition|date=1978|publisher=United States Naval Institute}}

• {{Official website|http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/ccsg7/Pages/default.aspx}}

{{US Navy navbox}}

{{United States Navy Carrier strike groups}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Carrier Strike Group 07}}

Category:Carrier Strike Groups

Category:Military units and formations disestablished in 2011

Category:Military units and formations established in 2004

Category:Military units and formations in California