Stephen W. Groves Hosts Tanzanian Naval Officers During Africa Partnership Station 2011

By Ens. Daniel Stayton, USS Stephen W. Groves Public Affairs

DAKAR, Senegal (NNS) -- USS Stephen W. Groves (FFG 29) welcomed aboard two Tanzanian naval officers as part of the multinational Africa Partnership Station (APS) East initiative, Jan. 27.

While on board the ship, the African partners will work along side the crew, participating in the day-to-day routine of U.S. Navy Sailors.

"I am pleased to have the opportunity to host riders from our partner nations in Africa," said Cmdr. Matthew Rick, USS Stephen W. Groves commanding officer. "I want the Tanzanians and my crew to take full advantage of this unique opportunity. This experience of sharing naval ideas and learning from each others' culture will remain with these sailors for the rest of their life."

Lt. Joseph Mjema and Sub Lt. Amani Mbwambo will embark the Stephen W. Groves for 10 days. While on board, they will participate in, and observe shipboard damage control, ship navigation and leadership training.

Mjema was very energized about this opportunity and expressed his willingness to learn.

"I am excited to learn navigation and chart work," said Mjema.

This is the first of many African partners that Stephen W. Groves will host in support of APS 2011.

APS is an international security cooperation initiative, facilitated by Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, aimed at strengthening global maritime partnerships through training and collaborative activities in order to improve maritime safety and security in Africa.

Stephen W. Groves, a Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided missile frigate, is homeported out of Mayport, Fla., and is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/naveur/.