USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63), Carrier Air Wing 5, and embarked staff said “Sayonara” to their Japanese hosts on May 28 as
Commander Task Force Seven Zero (CTF-70) got under way for its summer deployment.
The Gauntlets of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 136 conducted proficiency flight operations south of Japan after
wrapping up a short “port visit” to Naval Air Facility Atsugi.  Soon thereafter, CTF-70 proceeded to the Guam operating
area to partake in large force exercises and various unit level training.
Lt. Jeff Greco was excited to use the advanced training opportunities to commence his Prowler Weapons and Tactics
Program Level IV training Syllabus.
“You can always count on the professionalism of the CAG Five team whether it be the Zama Crawl or participating as an
element lead during a major power projection exercise,” Greco said. 
The Gauntlets marked their fourth visit to the tropical island of Guam over the last year. Sailors enjoyed the bright
sunshine, warm weather and welcoming “Hafa Adai” spirit of the locals. Despite repeated visits, many squadron members
still found new things to do.
Lt. Ben Carter went horseback riding for the first time. “I spent all day on a crazy horse. It was the kind of thing I’d only do
in Guam,” said Carter. 
Several other Sailors decided to forgo the hotels and other entertainment and spent the entire port call camping on Guam’s
pristine beaches.
During most deployments for forward deployed naval forces, Guam is the closest climate to a United States port call they
are likely to see. VAQ-136 and CVW-5 will remain embarked with Kitty Hawk until after the major “Rim of the Pacific” exercise.
Kitty Hawk is scheduled to return to the states and decommission by early 2009 in Bremerton. The Gauntlets will continue their
forward deployed mission embarked in USS George Washington (CVN 73).