USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58) Arrives in Maputo, Mozambique

USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58) arrived in Maputo, Mozambique, Aug. 26 for a four-day goodwill port visit.

Prior to its arrival, Samuel B. Roberts was underway supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

The visit marked the ship’s fourth East African port visit in the past six weeks. The other stops were in Mombasa, Kenya; Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania; and Victoria, Seychelles.

During Samuel B. Roberts visit, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategy, Resources and Plans, Rear Adm. Kenneth K.J. Norton will host a reception on the flight deck in honor of the U.S. Ambassador to Mozambique Leslie V. Rowe. The ship will also participate in community service projects at a local primary school and girls´ shelter, co-host a blood drive with the U.S. Embassy and challenge members of the Mozambique navy in a friendly soccer competition.

Samuel B. Roberts Commanding Officer Cmdr. Angel Cruz said the four days in Mozambique will be busy but productive.

“These guys have never failed to step-up to the plate when they are needed. I think a lot of them joined the Navy out of a sense of service and for the opportunity to help others who are in need,” said Cruz.

Samuel B. Roberts is an Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate that is homeported in Naval Station Mayport, Fla., and is currently on a scheduled deployment to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

[mappress]
Source: navy, August 30, 2011;