May 29, 2010 - NEW YORK (NNS) -- USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) welcomed aboard foreign military officers and foreign officials for a reception during Fleet Week New York 2010 May 27.
The event was a prelude to International Peacekeeper's Day celebrated May 29.
Before the reception, Iwo Jima Commanding Officer Capt. Jeffrey Amick showed a few officials a portion of the ship that has a mural of more than 45 flags from different countries, representing the ethnicity of each Sailor who has served aboard Iwo Jima.
"On board this ship we have Sailors who are from different countries throughout the world. We are very proud of that diversity because it breeds strength for us and the entire U.S. Navy," said Amick.
As Susan Rice, U.S. representative to the United Nations, spoke, she highlighted President Barack Obama's new security strategy, which uses the effort of each country to help create a more just and secure world.
"All nations have their rights and responsibilities, and no nation can meet those challenges alone. We'll work together to tackle the challenges of our inter-connected age. We will strengthen old alliances, build up mutually beneficial relationships with emerging powers in every region and support institutions such as the United Nations and its peace keeping forces," said Rice.
The partnership among services was also underlined.
"I appreciate the great partnership we enjoyed throughout our time in response to Haiti, and in the time we have planned for how we will respond if there is another situation," said Commander, U.S. Southern Command Gen. Douglas Fraser.
The ceremony ended with Rice reminding those in attendance about the main goal of United Nations peacekeepers.
"Let us remember again that peacekeeping is a noble undertaking, and it can succeed only if we all work together," said Rice.
Approximately 3,000 Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen are participating in the 23rd Fleet Week New York, which will take place May 26 to June 2. Fleet Week has been New York City's celebration of the sea services since 1984. It is an unparalleled opportunity for citizens of New York and the surrounding tri-state area to meet Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, as well as see, first-hand, the latest capabilities of today's maritime services.
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