Klakring Completes Visit to Coquimbo, Chile

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Michael J. Scott, CTG 40.0 Public Affairs

COQUIMBO, CHILE (NNS) -- Task Group 40.0 waved goodbye to the friendly people and picturesque scenery of Coquimbo, Chile, June 15 following a five-day port visit during its 2010 Southern Seas deployment.

Coquimbo lies in the Northern part of Chile and is the capital of the Elqui Province, located on the Pan-American Highway in the Coquimbo Region of Chile. The name means "Calm Waters" in the Mapuche language and was the perfect backdrop for Klakring's 9th port call and third engagement with the Chilean Navy and local community.

The ship was greeted by Coquimbo's mayor, singers, dancers, and a band. The band performed several songs as the Wassos (cowboys) and their partners, dressed in traditional outfits, performed the "Cueca", a traditional folk dance from the Elqui province.

DESRON 40's Commodore Capt. Brian Nickerson and Klakring's Commanding Officer Cmdr. Scott Smith paid calls on Coquimbo's Mayor, Oscar Pereira Tapia; the Maritime Governor Cmdr. Eric Solar Olavarria; and the Commander of the Carabineros Gen. Rodolfo Pacheco Kutz. The official calls normally provide insight into a city's history, culture, and people. Oftentimes they reveal common acquaintances and shared experiences. They always underscore that relationships are important and that ultimately we are alike in more ways than we differ.

That afternoon, U.S. and Chilean Sailors gathered to honor Chilean national and naval hero, Cmdr. Arturo Prat Chacon. Sailors from both nations smartly rendered salutes during the playing of each country's national anthem, while DESRON 40's commodore and Klakring's commanding officer laid a flower wreath in the shape of a U.S. Flag at the base of Prat's statue. This simple but moving ceremony is performed by all foreign naval vessels visiting Chile.

Later that evening, TG 40.0 hosted an reception for 40 local government, business and military leaders. Nickerson thanked the guests for the outpouring of warmth the Task Group had already received from the city.

While in Coquimbo, Team 42 partnered with the Chilean Navy in a community outreach project at Padre Alberto Hurtado School. Crew members painted, repaired and replaced light fixtures, and helped cut hair for some of the 276 students. The Sailors also enjoyed a spirited game of soccer against the children.

School Director Omar Rodriguez Valenzuela said he believes the school has a responsibility to work with and serve the community. He was also delighted to have the U.S. and Chilean navies come and help the school.

"Our kids are excited to have the U.S. Sailors here. It's great for them to experience another culture, and they will remember this day for a lifetime."

Competitive recreation was also an essential part for this port visit. Klakring's basketball and soccer players took on local teams and built camaraderie and friendships with Coquimbo residents. Both teams enjoyed meeting and making new friends while strengthening ties between the countries.

"The people that we interact with are more than allies, they are friends; and that makes a huge difference. Each one makes you feel like family." Smith said.

Klakring is on a six-month deployment to South America and the Caribbean as part of Southern Seas 2010, a U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM)-directed operation that provides U.S. and international forces the opportunity to operate in a multinational environment. This year's deployment includes Klakring and HSL 42 Det. 10 with DESRON 40 as Command Element.