Battenberg Cup Arrives Aboard 'Big E'

In this file photo, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) pulls into its homeport of Naval Station Norfolk in December 2007, after a six-month deployment. The Enterprise Carrier Strike Group deployed to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility to support theater security cooperation and maritime security operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joshua Adam Nuzzo.)

Focus on Defense:

"What is the Battenberg Cup? It means you are the best ship in the Atlantic fleet, simply put."

NEWPORT NEWS, Va., Aug. 14, 2008 -- The crew from USS Enterprise (CVN 65) "The Big E," was presented with the prestigious Battenberg Cup, Aug. 13, for recognition of their outstanding achievements in operational excellence in 2007.

Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, visited the 'Big E' to present the award to Enterprise Commanding Officer, Capt. Ron Horton and the crew.

More than 1,500 crew members were on hand to witness the event; including Commander, Carrier Strike Group 12, Rear Adm. John N. Christenson.

The Battenberg Cup is an award that is given annually to the best all-around ship or submarine based on the accumulation of crew successes in the Atlantic Fleet. Big E was selected as the number one ship out of all the carriers, amphibious, submarines, frigates, destroyers and cruisers in the Atlantic Fleet.

"What is the Battenberg Cup," asked Greenert. "It means you are the best ship in the Atlantic fleet, simply put."

"It is not just about battle efficiency, it is not just about retention, it's not about navigation, it's not about administration," said Greenert. "It is all of that put together, that's what makes it unique and that's what makes it special."

Greenert also presented Horton with the official Battle Efficiency Award citation in recognition of Big E also winning the 2007 Battle "E" for aircraft carriers on the East Coast.

Greenert emphasized that winning the award, as well as being apart of the U.S. Navy were things to take great pride in.

"Remember you're taking part in something bigger than yourself," said Greenert. "You joined the Navy, you were put on a ship, in a crew with a lot of heritage and a lot of tradition. You are the oldest ship, but also the best ship and that is truly unique."

After the presentation, Horton gave a brief speech congratulating the crew members of Enterprise on this accomplishment.

"To tell you that I am proud of you would be an absolutely gross understatement," said Horton. "You earned this. Your blood, sweat and tears are what got you this cup."

Enterprise is drydocked at Northrop Grumman Shipyard in Newport News, conducting its extended drydocking selected restricted availability.

(Story by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Devonte' Jones, USS Enterprise Public Affairs.)

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