Commander Carrier Group 4

• Origins During World War II: Commander Carrier Group 4 (CCG-4), originally designated as Carrier Division Four, was established in 1943 to command carrier task groups in the Atlantic, focusing on anti-submarine warfare and convoy protection. • Cold War Role: As tensions rose in the Cold War, Carrier Group 4 became a major component of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet, regularly participating in exercises to counter the Soviet Navy and protect Atlantic sea lanes. • Flagship Variety: Over its history, Commander Carrier Group 4 has operated from the decks of many of the Navy’s most famous aircraft carriers, including USS Forrestal (CV-59), USS Saratoga (CV-60), and USS Enterprise (CVN-65). • Operation Desert Storm: Carrier Group 4 played a pivotal role in preparing and certifying carrier strike groups for combat during the Gulf War, ensuring naval air power was ready for deployment to the Persian Gulf. • Training the Fleet: CG-4 is renowned for its responsibility in overseeing and executing the Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX), the final major exercise before a carrier strike group deploys. • Redesignation and Modern Era: In 2004, Commander Carrier Group 4 was officially redesignated as Commander, Carrier Strike Group Four (CCSG-4), reflecting its broader responsibilities in modern strike group training. • Joint and Coalition Exercises: The command leads and coordinates multinational training events, such as Bold Alligator and Joint Warrior, enhancing interoperability with NATO and allied navies. • Innovator in Live, Virtual, and Constructive Training: Carrier Group 4 is a pioneer in integrating live, virtual, and constructive (LVC) training environments, simulating complex scenarios for crews without leaving port. • Homeport: The unit is headquartered at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, the world’s largest naval base and a hub for Atlantic Fleet operations. • Motto and Emblem: The command’s emblem features the eagle and aircraft carrier, symbolizing the unit’s commitment to power projection and maritime security, and its motto emphasizes readiness and excellence in training.