USS Taylor Makes Historic Stop in Port Mahon

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Edward S. Kessler, USS Taylor (FFG 50) Public Affairs

June 8, 2010 - MENORCA, Spain (NNS) -- USS Taylor (FFG 50) visited Port Mahon, Menorca, in the Balearic Islands of Spain June 3–7.

Taylor visited Port Mahon to participate in ceremonies honoring Adm. David Farragut, a U.S. Navy hero.

Taylor's historic visit to Port Mahon marks the culmination of months of work by the Madrid Council of the Navy League of the United States and marks the first time that a U.S. Navy warship has visited Port Mahon since 1998.

"The U.S. Navy has enjoyed a special relationship with the Port of Mahon," said Cmdr. Lyle Hall, Taylor commanding officer. "Many of America's first leaders were trained here."

The island of Menorca and its citizens were of critical importance in the early days of the U.S. Navy. Port Mahon served as a protective port during the winter months for the fledgling U.S. Navy from 1815-1840 and marks the final resting place for several American Sailors who gave their lives defending the Mediterranean Sea from Barbary pirates.

"This has been one of the biggest public relations event that we have had on this island between the Spanish Navy and U.S. Navy," said George Ferrara, second vice president of the Madrid Council of the Navy League of the United States. "Before 9/11, U.S. Navy ships would come here and clean the cemetery."

During the visit, Taylor was invited by the Navy League to participate in Farragut Day celebrations. Sailors from Taylor's color guard incorporated Spanish Sailors into their unit to render honors during the event. The people of Menorca recognize a special connection to Farragut because his father, Jorge Glasgow, emigrated from Menorca to Tennessee during the 1700s.

The celebrations concluded at the Embarcadero Cemetery, where a small ceremony was held to remember American Sailors buried there and to signify the friendship and bond between Menorca and the U.S. Navy.

"Overall it was a wonderful experience," said Taylor's Command Master Chief (SW) Steven Allen. "It brought us back to our heritage, it was a once in a lifetime experience."

Taylor's current mission includes the continued cross cultural participation between Spain and the United States. Two Spanish midshipmen are currently serving on board Taylor as part of their summer training and professional development.

Taylor will return to her duties in the Mediterranean Sea as a part of NATO's Operation Active Endeavor, conducting maritime security operations.