USS Donald Cook Heads for Reassurance Mission in Black Sea

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 9, 2014 – The USS Donald Cook is scheduled to arrive in the Black Sea tomorrow as part of the U.S. commitment to mutual goals in the region, a Pentagon spokesman said today.

Army Col. Steven Warren explained the Navy vessel’s mission upon arrival to Pentagon reporters.

“The Donald Cook’s mission is to reassure NATO allies and Black Sea partners of America’s commitment to strengthen and improve interoperability while working towards mutual goals in the region,” Warren said.

The colonel noted that while in the Black Sea, the ship will participate in exercises and operations to improve interoperability, readiness and enhance relationships.

“It demonstrates our commitment to our … allies to enhance security, readiness and capabilities,” Warren said.

The vessel left Norfolk, Va., Jan. 31 as the first of four Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers to be stationed in Rota, Spain, to enhance security in the European region.