Thursday Evening | Welcome to Virginia
As a kick off for the commissioning festivities this reception offers an opportunity to meet and greet selected attendees from around the world who have come to support President George H. W. Bush. Invitation only.

Friday Afternoon | Ship’s Sponsor Luncheon
Provides an opportunity to honor the Ship’s Sponsor, Doro Bush Koch. As the tradition stands, her spirit and presence will guide the ship throughout its service. Special gifts are presented to the sponsor and to the ship represented by the Perspective Commanding Officer. Invitation only.

Friday Evening | USS GEORGE H.W. BUSH (CVN 77) Gala
This event is a tradition that offers guests from the military, business, and political communities along with family and friends to toast the impending commissioning. The Perspective Commanding Officer and selected guests have an opportunity to thank all those involved. Special guests invited will include, President and Mrs. George H. W. Bush, Secretary of Defense, Secretary of the Navy, Chief of Naval Operations and the Ship’s Sponsor. Invitation only.

Saturday | Pre-Commissioning Breakfast
This gathering enables platform guests and other VIPs to be briefed on what to expect during the commissioning ceremony and post-commissioning events. Upon completion they are transported to the pier for seating. Invitation only.

Commissioning Ceremony
Official United States Navy event. Tickets required/Limited seating available.

Post-Commissioning Reception
Following the official commissioning ceremony, guests are routed to the commissioning tent where refreshments, photos and overall goodwill prevail. An event like this culminates Navy tradition and the official transfer of a warship from the ship builder to the United States Navy. Guests that attended will be officially part of history. Tickets required/Limited seating available.

Crew’s Reception
This event is simply a “party” once the commissioning is over and it is time to celebrate all the crew’s efforts in bringing their ship to life. What was a Pre-Commissioning Unit is now an official part of the United States Navy Fleet. Invitation only.

Duty Crew’s Reception
For those who must man the ship during the Crew’s reception, this special evening is designated for these crew members and guests to similarly celebrate the commissioning. Invitation only.