Two U.S. Navy destroyers and a guided missile cruiser visited ports in three European cities on December 30 and 31.
Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61) arrived in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, while Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) arrived in Split, Croatia on December 31.
USS Porter (DDG 78) pulled into Venice, Italy, on December 30.
USS Monterey was deployed as part of the Eisenhower carrier strike group and is supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations.
Sailors aboard USS Cole visited local attractions in Split, Dubrovnik, hiked the mountain Mosor, and toured parts of the “Game of Thrones” filming set in Split.
The forward-deployed USS Porter is currently operating in the Mediterranean Sea, working with allies and regional partners to help develop and improve our maritime forces, maintain regional security.
“Visiting a city with a historic seafaring tradition such as Venice allows us to celebrate our enduring friendship as we share customs and traditions,” said Cmdr. Andria Slough , Commanding Officer, USS Porter. “Many Americans trace their heritage here, and this port provides a unique opportunity for the entire crew to experience the rich culture of Italy.”