Sailors Enjoy Port Visit in Rota, Spain

By Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dylan Miles, USS Bataan Public Affairs

ROTA, Spain (NNS) -- More than 2,500 Sailors and embarked Marines aboard multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) completed a port visit to Rota, Spain, Jan. 19.

The crew experienced the culture and sights of the city, and participated in tours in Rota and the surrounding area.

"The city was beautiful," said Electronics Technician 3rd Class (SW) Steven Ray, a native of Hickory Grove, S.C. "I especially liked the old look of the cobblestone streets, and the people were really helpful and kind."

The ship's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) office provided a variety of tours for the crew including Sevilla, ancient Ronda and the Rock of Gibraltar.

"The tours were a great way for everyone to relax," said Airman Juan Cardona, a native of New York. "It was also a good way for people to see parts of Spain they wouldn't normally have been able to experience on their own."

Several Sailors and embarked Marines attended community relation events while in port. Musicians aboard Bataan performed at a retirement home, and sports fans were able to play a game of soccer against a Division Two Team from Rota.

"I think the community relations were a great idea," said Aviation Electronics Technician 3rd Class (AW/SW) Evan Droegemueller, a native of Greeley, Co. "Not only did we help people, but it gave us a chance to relax and interact with the people of Spain."

Bataan is currently deployed as the command ship of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.