YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) -- The U.S. Ambassador to Japan visited the Navy's forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), Sept. 6.

Ambassador William F. Hagerty met with senior leaders from Ronald Reagan and Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70. The visit was Ambassador Hagerty's first to Ronald Reagan since taking the office of U.S. Ambassador to Japan in July.

"It was an honor to visit America's Flagship," said Hagerty. "I'm inspired by the professionalism of our Sailors and impressed with the work they do to protect and defend the collective maritime interests of the U.S. and its allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. Moreover I was struck by the daily sacrifices our men and women in uniform make to ensure peace and prosperity remain the status quo in the region."

During the visit, Ambassador Hagerty toured the navigation bridge, flight deck control, flight deck, hangar bay, aircraft elevators and Ronald Reagan museum. Capt. Buzz Donnelly, Ronald Reagan's commanding officer said it was an honor to host the ambassador.

"It was extremely important and valuable in terms of the support he provides to the ship, recognizing the importance of USS Ronald Reagan to the security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region," said Donnelly.

Ronald Reagan provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interests of the U.S. and its allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

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For more news from USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn76/.