USS Ross Departs Souda Bay

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John Herman, USS Ross Public Affairs

SOUDA BAY, Greece (NNS) -- Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) departed Souda Bay, Greece, following a scheduled port visit, July 29.

Ross was in Souda Bay for three days, while the ship refueled and met incoming personnel. The port visit allowed the crew an opportunity to experience some of the culture and sights the island of Crete has to offer.

"It went great. The crew really enjoyed being able to get out and explore what Crete has to offer," said Cmdr. Tadd Gorman, Ross' commanding officer.

While in port, Sailors visited the historic town of Chania, Crete's second largest city. Morale, Welfare and Recreation also provided several tours.

"Greece was awesome. Great food, the water was clear and I loved the culture," said Personnel Specialist 1st Class Joan Aparicio. "It makes the long hours and late nights [underway] all worthwhile."

Ross' presence in Souda Bay reaffirmed the United States' commitment to strengthening ties with NATO allies and partners, while working toward the mutual goals of promoting peace and stability in the region.

Ross, forward deployed to Rota, Spain, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe.

U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied, joint, and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.