Guided-Missile Destroyer USS Truxtun Departs Haifa, Israel

Guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun (DDG 103) departed Haifa, Israel, after a successful port visit, June 16.

The two-day port visit gave Sailors an opportunity to enjoy liberty while learning about the culture and its various traditions within the region.

“Haifa has enjoyed many years of successful visits by ships from the U.S. Navy,” said Cmdr. John H. Ferguson, USS Truxtun commanding officer. “It is a fantastic port for us to visit, and I think it will enjoy many future visits by U.S. ships.”

During the visit Ferguson had the opportunity to speak with Haifa Mayor Yona Yahav, who welcomed Truxtun to the city and expressed his thanks for visiting Haifa.

Sailors also had the opportunity to explore Israel’s historical background during visits to the West Wall, Temple Mount and various places of historical religion, as part of a tour provided by the ship’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program.

“Just going to Jerusalem was phenomenal for me,” said Yeoman Seaman Recruit Jonah Al Calimee. “You read about all the places, but you never imagine yourself being there and the Navy made that possible for me.”

“I think this visit was unmatched in its ability to expose the crew to a very rich history,” said Ferguson. “Most of the crew took the opportunity to visit as much of Haifa and surrounding Israel as they could.”

Truxtun is deployed as part of the George H.W. Bush Strike Group, comprised of Carrier Strike Group 2 staff, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, Destroyer Squadron 22 staff, USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), guided-missile cruisers USS Gettysburg (CG 64) and USS Anzio (CG 68), and guided-missile destroyers Truxtun and USS Mitscher (DDG 57).
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Source: navy, June 20, 2011;