USS RONALD REAGAN HOST COMMITTEE ANNOUNCE GALA EVENT

Navy League of The United States - Santa Barbara Chapter

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Actor John Schneider and the
"General Lee" Visit Ronald Reagan Sailors

FOR RELEASE: 9/19/2007

From USS Ronald Reagan Public Affairs

USS RONALD REAGAN, Coronado, CA -- SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Sailors aboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) enjoyed a visit from actor and 1980's pop icon John Schneider, Sept. 15.

Widely known for his role as "Bo Duke" on the hit television series "The Dukes of Hazzard," Schneider visited with Sailors to say thank you.

Schneider, who showed up in the famous orange 1969 Dodge Charger known as the "General Lee," said he wanted to show his appreciation for military personnel and thank them for their service.

“The Sailors were fantastic, everyone was so polite,” said Schneider. "This ship is full of Clark Kents," referring to his role on the television show "Smallville," which is about Superman.

Schneider was impressed by the size and cleanliness of the ship, and the pride of the Ronald Reagan crew.

Ronald Reagan Sailors said they enjoyed the opportunity to meet the television star and country recording artist.

“Since I was young I’ve been into cars," said Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class (SW) Sean Tabor who spent a lot of time admiring the famous 1969 Dodge Charger.

"John Schneider did all his own driving on the show, so it was cool to meet a childhood role model," added Tabor. "This was the best duty day ever."

Schneider's visit also brought back many memories for Sailors who grew up in the 1980s.

“He’s been a family icon, my mom always liked him,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class (AW/SW) Michael Ryan, who knew Schneider from the popular television show that ran from 1979-1985.

“This was a dream come true, extremely unique and one of the greatest days in my life,” said Ryan. "It was unbelievable."

Ryan received a special invitation from Schneider to join him in the "General Lee" as he spun a few donuts in the parking lot before leaving.

“I don’t want to use the cliché of awesome, but coming from a motor head, it rates up there with the greatest pleasures in life,” said Ryan.

Ronald Reagan is currently undergoing a planned incremental availability in her homeport of San Diego following a three-month surge deployment in support of operations in the Western Pacific.

For related news, visit the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Navy NewsStand page at www.news.navy.mil/local/cvn76/.