By Lt. j.g. Lauren Chatmas, USS Lassen Public Affairs
SUBIC BAY, Philippines (NNS) -- The Arleigh Burke-class
guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82) arrived in Subic Bay for a port
visit, July 1.
"With all the natural beauty the Philippines has to
offer, I am honored and excited to bring Lassen back to Subic Bay," said
Cmdr. Robert Francis, Lassen's commanding officer. "For many of our
Sailors, this is a real treat to be coming back to such a beautiful country. I
could not ask for a more exciting and culture-rich port to visit."
Prior to arrival, Lassen's crew of 320 Sailors, including
members of the 'Warlords' of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 51,
conducted presence patrols in the South China Sea and in waters around the
Philippine Islands.
During the port visit, Lassen's crew will have the
opportunity to interact with local citizens, experience Philippine culture,
give back to the local community through several community relation projects
and enjoy the natural splendor of the surrounding land and seascapes.
U.S. Navy port visits not only improve the quality of life
for Sailors, but also play an important role in promoting peace and stability
by strengthening relationships between the U.S. and the Philippines.
Lassen, one of seven destroyers assigned to Destroyer Squadron
(DESRON) 15, is currently on patrol in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility in
support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
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