USS Denver Docks in Darwin, Australia

Amphibious transport dock ship USS Denver (LPD 9), with the embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), arrived in Darwin, Australia, Aug. 22, following scheduled operations in the region.

Denver’s visit to Darwin comes after a successful certification exercise (CERTEX) with the 31st MEU in the Coral Sea.

While in Darwin, Sailors and Marines will have the opportunity to enjoy some well-deserved personal time in town, participate in community service outreach programs and swim and hike in Litchfield National Park for a Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) tour.

“MWR is very important to Denver. It’s a chance for all the people to get out and see what Darwin has to offer,” said Chief Damage Controlman Carlos Gonzalez, Denver’s MWR coordinator. “MWR keeps them entertained and keeps them satisfied.”

Denver is on patrol with the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and, with the embarked 31st MEU, is currently conducting routine joint-force operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility.

The Bonhomme Richard ARG is commanded by Capt. Cathal O’Connor, commodore, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11 and reports to the Commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, Rear Adm. Jeffrey A. Harley, headquartered in White Beach, Okinawa, Japan.

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Press Release, August 23, 2013; Image: Navy