USS Monterey Conducts Teleconference with the President of the United States of America

The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61) a component of Carrier Strike Group Ten (CSG 10), held a teleconference with the President Donald Trump and representatives from each of the branches of the Department of Defense on Thursday afternoon.

The President wanted to thank the crew for serving their country and being away from home this holiday season.

“Thank you for doing such an incredible job,” said the President. “We very much appreciate it.”

After a few remarks, President Trump extended his holiday greetings to the crew and wished them a joyful holiday season. “You are fighting for something real, fighting for something good,” said President Trump. “We totally support you. We love you. Thank God for you.”

Twenty-five Sailors from all eight departments onboard Monterey participated in the teleconference.

"This is a Thanksgiving I will never forget," said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Sarah Harrell.

“While it is hard to be away from family for the holidays for the second time in a row, I really appreciate that the President took time out of his day to talk to me” said Quartermaster 2nd Class Christopher Carroll.

“I never thought I would have the privilege to talk to the commander in chief” said Machinist Mate 2nd Class Ethan Geishert. “I am thankful for this experience this Thanksgiving.”

“This is a really unique experience for all of us on Monterey.” said Capt. Dave Stoner, Monterey’s commanding officer. “I am humbled by this special day and thankful this event occurred.”

Monterey is deployed to support maritime security operations and to increase theater security cooperation and forward naval presence.