Truxtun Sailors Experience History, Culture of Cyprus

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin J. Steinberg, USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs

LIMASSOL, Cyprus (NNS) -- Guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun (DDG 103) departed Limassol, Cyprus, after a successful port visit, June 13.

The visit gave the crew an opportunity to explore the traditions of the region.

"I think the visit to Cyprus was a fantastic opportunity for Truxtun Sailors to go ashore and learn about the culture and history of the region," said Cmdr. John H. Ferguson, commanding officer for Truxtun.

Sailors had the opportunity to explore Cyprus's historical background with tours provided by the ship's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program. Trips to archeological sites, House of Dionysos and the rock of Aphrodite, were available.

"It was fun to interact with different people from different cultures and see the historical landscape," said Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Mohammed M. Yakubu. "It was beautiful and different compared to what I'm used to. It gave me a brighter picture of the places I've read about in books."

Ferguson expressed the mission of port visits.

"We approach every port visit like any other military operation," Ferguson said.

After three days in port, Truxtun departed Limassol.

"On a ship with so many young people who have never left the U.S., these opportunities are very important to reminding us that the world is a big place with many diverse cultures with rich histories," said Ferguson.

Truxtun is deployed as part of the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group, comprised of Carrier Strike Group 2 staff, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, Destroyer Squadron 22 staff, USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), guided-missile cruisers USS Gettysburg (CG 64) and USS Anzio (CG 68), and guided-missile destroyers Truxtun and USS Mitscher (DDG 57).