In November 2006, Pottenger became the first female admiral to command a strike group when she assumed command of Amphibious Force 7th Fleet/Expeditionary Strike Group Seven at White Beach, Okinawa, aboard . Pottenger led, prepared, and deployed amphibious and expeditionary naval forces consisting of eight ships and over 6000 Sailors through over 80 distinct, strategic engagements across the western Pacific area of operations in support of the United States Seventh Fleet commander. Additionally, Pottenger served as a formal spokesperson and diplomatic representative during United States efforts to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in several Asian countries.
