SAN DIEGO – Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71), flagship of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9, hosted a one-day friends and family cruise, Aug. 8, 2026.
Theodore Roosevelt welcomed aboard nearly 2,000 friends and family members to get an up-close look at the ship’s air power capabilities and underway operations. Sailors were able to take guests to the flight deck, flag bridge, medical, foc’sle, hangar bay and mess decks. Friends and Family Day served as a unique opportunity to share awareness and express appreciation to the loved ones that support Sailors through every tour, whether ashore or at sea.
“This event showcases the talent, pride and professionalism of our Sailors aboard Theodore Roosevelt,” said Capt. William Mathis, commanding officer of the USS Theodore Roosevelt. “To be able to demonstrate this for their loved ones while underway brings a greater understanding to the people that are the foundation of their support. I believe that is so impactful.”
Friends and relatives were invited to learn more about the ship’s capabilities through an interactive damage control demonstration, a security department display, and tours through flight deck control. Theodore Roosevelt’s Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) division also hosted a variety of games and activities.
“I brought my wife and two boys,” said Lt. Cmdr. Joshua Austring. “They finally got to see what it’s like. It was just an awesome time and they got to see what Dad does for work.”
The headline event was an air power demonstration on the flight deck that showcased aircraft from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 11. Guests witnessed aerial combat maneuvers from F/A-18 Super Hornet jets and the rescue capabilities of MH-60S Seahawk helicopters from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8.
“They (Scouting America Troop 801) won’t stop talking about the air show,” said Michael Kamas, leader of Coronado Scout Troop 801. “They’re definitely going to remember today.”
Theodore Roosevelt is currently pier side at Naval Air Station North Island in its homeport of San Diego.