Guided-Missile Frigate USS Carr Visits Turku, Finland

The guided-missile frigate USS Carr (FFG 52) pulled into Turku, Finland, making her second Baltic Sea port visit during her current deployment July 11.

Carr visits Turku following an eight-day transit from St. Petersburg, Russia. Carr’s Sailors strengthened the U.S.-Russia bond between the during a six-day port visit there.

“The crew of Carr and I had a magnificent time in St. Petersburg, learning about their history and building long standing relationships,” said Cmdr. Patrick E. Kulakowski, Carr’s commanding officer. “We hope to continue this spirit of cooperation as we visit our Finnish friends here in the city of Turku.”

Carr will hold a press conference pier side and co-host a reception for members of the Finnish navy and senior government official from Turku. They will also participate in military-to-military sporting events with the Finnish navy.

“I have 40 Sailors signed up for soccer and the international game of boot throwing,” said Ensign John Smith, sports organizer aboard Carr. “Everyone I have spoken to is very excited about the games, especially the boot throwing game. Events like these help build friendships by opening us up to other cultures and traditions.”

Carr Sailors will also get the chance to see historical sights on their own and take advantage of the ship’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program.

“I think it is great that our MWR program will reimburse us for tickets to museums and historical sites,” said Culinary Specialist Seaman Aaron Kinchen. “I plan to take full advantage of that program in Turku. I am really looking forward to seeing the Turku Castle.”

Carr is homeported out of Norfolk, Va., and is on a three-month deployment supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.
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Source: navy, July 13, 2011;