USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) facts for kids

The USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier in 2004.

The USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) is a giant ship in the United States Navy. It is powered by a nuclear reactor, which means it uses nuclear energy to move. This ship is the ninth of its kind, and it is named after Ronald Reagan, who was the President of the United States from 1981 to 1989.

When the ship was officially named and launched in 2001, it was special because it was the first time a ship was named after a former president who was still alive.

As of 2012, the USS Ronald Reagan was part of a group of ships called Carrier Strike Group Nine. This group works together for naval operations.

Even though Ronald Reagan was not a sailor in the Navy, he was the Commander-in-Chief (the leader of all the military forces) during his time as president. He also started a plan to build a very large navy.

Ronald Reagan could not attend the ship's naming ceremony because he was very sick with Alzheimer's disease. His wife, Nancy Reagan, officially named the ship along with the President at the time, George W. Bush.

The USS Ronald Reagan was out at sea when President Reagan passed away on June 5, 2004.

What is the USS Ronald Reagan?

The USS Ronald Reagan is an aircraft carrier. This means it is like a floating airport for military planes. It is one of the largest warships in the world. These ships are very important for defending the country and helping in different parts of the world.

How big is it?

The USS Ronald Reagan is incredibly large. It is about 1,092 feet (333 meters) long. That's longer than three football fields! It can carry a crew of over 5,000 sailors and many different types of aircraft.

What does it do?

The main job of an aircraft carrier like the USS Ronald Reagan is to support air operations. It can launch and land fighter jets, helicopters, and other planes. These aircraft can perform many tasks, like protecting other ships, gathering information, or helping during emergencies.

Naming the Ship

The tradition of naming ships after important people is a way to honor them. The USS Ronald Reagan was named after the 40th President of the United States.

Ronald Reagan's Legacy

Ronald Reagan was a very important figure in American history. He served two terms as president. During his time, he focused on strengthening the military and the economy. Naming a powerful ship like an aircraft carrier after him shows how much he was respected.

Important Events

The USS Ronald Reagan has been involved in many important events and missions since it was built.

Building and Launching

The ship was built in Newport News, Virginia. It took several years to construct this massive vessel. After it was built, it went through many tests to make sure everything worked perfectly before it joined the fleet.

First Missions

After its commissioning in 2003, the USS Ronald Reagan began its active service. It has traveled all over the world, participating in training exercises and real-world operations. These missions help keep the seas safe and support international allies.

Gringo-Gaucho Maneuvers

In 2004, the USS Ronald Reagan took part in exercises with the Argentine Navy. These exercises, called "Gringo-Gaucho," helped the navies from different countries practice working together. It was a way to build stronger relationships and improve skills.

Pacific Ocean Operations

The ship often operates in the Pacific Ocean. This area is very large, and the presence of an aircraft carrier helps maintain peace and stability. The USS Ronald Reagan has been involved in many missions there, including humanitarian aid and disaster relief.

Maintenance and Upgrades

Like all large ships, the USS Ronald Reagan needs regular maintenance. It goes into dry dock for repairs and upgrades to its systems. This ensures the ship stays in top condition and can continue its important work for many years.

Images for kids

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  Former President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan with a model of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) in 1996.

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  The commissioning ceremony of the Ronald Reagan in 2003.

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  An Argentine Navy jet on the USS Ronald Reagan during exercises in 2004.

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  Scott Stapp, lead singer of the band Creed, performing aboard the Ronald Reagan.

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  US Navy sailors during a burial-at-sea ceremony aboard the Ronald Reagan in 2009.

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  The USS Ronald Reagan during maintenance in 2010, alongside other carriers.

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  The USS Ronald Reagan returning to San Diego Bay in 2011.

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  Sailors' personal cars being carried on the ship from San Diego to Bremerton in 2012.

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  The USS Ronald Reagan in port at Yokosuka during maintenance in 2017.

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  A C-2A Greyhound plane landing on the flight deck of the USS Ronald Reagan in July 2017.

See also

In Spanish: USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) para niños