USS Blue Ridge Arrives in Donghae, ROK

U.S. Seventh Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) and embarked 7th Fleet staff arrived in Donghae, Republic of Korea (ROK) for a port visit March 2

The visit will give the crew an opportunity to experience Korean culture in Donghae. While here, Sailors will also go on sightseeing tours, participate in community service events with their ROK navy partners, build friendships while attending a cultural art performance and participate in a Korean cultural-heritage tour.

Blue Ridge is scheduled to welcome aboard ROK military and public officials, as well as members of the media to provide them with guided tours of the flagship. The tours will give guests a first hand look at the U.S. Navy’s finest flagship.

“We want to make sure that our allies in the Republic of Korea know that we are there to support them,” said Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Eric Mayes, Medical department leading chief petty officer.

Mayes said the port visit offers Sailors a unique occasion to meet the Korean people and build stronger relationships with them.

“The emphasis is the continued cooperation between the United States and the Republic of Korea. Our Sailors benefit greatly from port visits like this and we learn from other nations. The opportunity to experience the culture and history of this nation [Republic of Korea] broadens our Sailors’ perspectives and makes us all better world citizens.”

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Naval Today Staff , March 05, 2012