US destroyer departs French aircraft carrier group fighting ISIS

U.S. Navy’s guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) wrapped up its mission of supporting the French Charles de Gaulle carrier strike group.

Ross was part of a destroyer squadron in charge of protecting the aircraft carrier from attacks thereby enabling it to launch fighter jets to carry out airstrikes against ISIS strongholds in Syria.

The U.S. Navy destroyer was assigned to the Charles de Gaulle carrier strike group from September 19 to October 26.

During its 36 days with the group, Ross completed 12 air defense exercises, 4 personnel exchanges, and more than 20 cross-deck operations.

“Working with the Charles de Gaulle carrier strike group was a great experience which showcased the strength of our interoperability. We conducted a full spectrum of military operations as we continue to show our support to our NATO allies to maintain a safe, secure, and prosperous European region,” Cmdr. Russell Caldwell, commanding officer, USS Ross, said.