Tuesday, September 30, 2014

USS James E. Williams Arrives in Port Louis, Mauritius



By Ensign Michael Scarborough, USS James E. Williams Public Affairs

PORT LOUIS, Mauritius (NNS) -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) arrived in Port Louis, Mauritius, for a port visit Sept. 29.

This port visit serves to continue U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet's efforts to be a forward deployed presence in the African theater and to demonstrate our commitment to regional stability and maritime security.

"We are excited for our visit to Port Louis and grateful for this opportunity to strengthen our ties with Mauritius," said Capt. Tony Simmons, James E. Williams' commanding officer. "Assisting our African partners in building core competencies allows our maritime partners to develop African solutions to African problems."

This visit serves to continue U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa's efforts to build maritime partnerships with African nations in order to improve regional maritime safety and security.

While in port, Sailors are scheduled to participate in two sporting events with the local police force, host a reception, and conduct a community relations project. Sailors will also improve the material condition of the ship.

James E. Williams, homeported in Norfolk, Virginia, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Africa.

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.

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