Guided-missile destroyer USS Mitscher (DDG 57) arrived in Lisbon, Portugal, for a regularly scheduled port visit, Nov. 23.
The visit serves as a continuing effort for U.S. 6th Fleet to build global maritime partnerships with European nations and improve maritime safety and security.
“Liberty is a mission for the ship, and we were looking for a good port to visit to strengthen relations and be good ambassadors for the (U.S.) Navy and the United States,” said Cmdr. Brian K. Sorenson , USS Mitscher commanding officer.
The port visit comes after almost seven months of deployment, five of which were spent conducting operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR).
During Mitscher’s time in port, Sailors will have the opportunity to tour the city and learn about the culture and history that Lisbon has to offer.
“Lisbon was our number one choice, because we know it’s a tremendous city with great culture, has a warm demeanor and great hospitality,” Sorenson said. “It’s a great opportunity for Mitscher to spend time in the 6th Fleet AOR, as we’re coming back from our deployment to the 5th Fleet AOR.”
The visit also serves as a beginning point for an antisubmarine warfare exercise Mitscher is scheduled to participate in with the Portuguese navy, beginning shortly after the ship departs Lisbon.
Mitscher is deployed as part of the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWBCSG) to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and support missions.
The strike group consists 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 the guided-missile destroyers Mitscher and USS Truxtun (DDG 103).
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, November 24, 2011; Image: navy