The amphibious command ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) visited Monte Carlo, Monaco, to participate in Monaco’s National Day celebration, Nov. 19-21.
During the visit, Mount Whitney Sailors participated in a parade through the city, provided tours of the ship, and met with senior local officials. Also while in port, the U.S. ambassador to France hosted a reception aboard the ship.
“Monaco has been a favorite destination of 6th Fleet for many years,” said Vice Adm. Frank C. Pandolfe , commander, U.S. 6th Fleet. “The beauty of this place and the warmth of the people are legendary and the strong ties between the United States and Monaco makes visiting Monte Carlo very special to us.”
During the ceremony, U.S. Ambassador to France, Charles Rivkin , spoke to guests and thanked the Mount Whitney crew for their visit to Monaco.
“It is an honor and a privilege to be here today aboard the flagship of the 6th Fleet,” said Rivkin. “What an incredible way to show our deep appreciation for the strong ties that bind Monaco together with the United States.”
Other guests included Prince Albert Alexandre Louis Pierre Grimaldi II of Monaco and members of his family.
“We are so pleased, my family and I, to have been able to be your host,” said Prince Albert II. “We are delighted to have been able to receive all of the officers and crew of Mount Whitney.”
This celebration marks the 156th anniversary of the independence of Monaco.
Mount Whitney is the U.S. 6th Fleet flagship, homeported in Gaeta, Italy, and operates with a combined crew of U.S. Sailors and Military Sealift Command civil service mariners. The civil service mariners perform navigation, deck, engineering, laundry and galley service operations while military personnel aboard support communications, weapons systems and security.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff,November 22, 2012; Image: US Navy