USS Farragut Concludes Lisbon Port Visit

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jackie Hart, USS Farragut Public Affairs

LISBON, Portugal (NNS) -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut completed a scheduled port visit in Lisbon, Portugal, March 25.

While in port, Farragut conducted two community relations (COMREL) projects, and engaged in several Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) events. Farragut also hosted a tour and reception for members of the Military Attache Association, Rear Adm. Roy Kitchener, Chief of Staff, Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO, and members of the U.S. Embassy staff aboard the ship.

"It was an honor to welcome members of the Military Attache Association aboard Farragut," said Cmdr. Cory Applebee, commanding officer of Farragut. "The people of Portugal have been exceedingly warm and hospitable and have made this a port visit to remember."

More than 20 Farragut Sailors volunteered their time to help paint and perform landscaping work as a part of COMREL projects at the ATL Galiza School and Ronald McDonald House.

"Being able to volunteer and give back to the local community while spending time in their country is a gift and a privilege," said Chief Damage Controlman Christopher Kujat. "Both the ATL Galiza School and Ronald McDonald House do a great job in providing for those in need, and our Sailors enjoyed the opportunities to go and assist in the routine upkeep of their facilities."

Taking advantage of the chance to relax, Farragut Sailors enjoyed four cultural and scenic tours sponsored by the ship's MWR committee, and the ship's basketball and soccer teams engaged in friendly matches with local Portuguese players.

"It was really great getting to visit a foreign country, interacting with the local people and experiencing a different way of life," said Quartermaster 2nd Class Stephen Howard. "Lisbon is a beautiful city and I hope to be able to visit again one day."

Farragut is part of the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG), which is comprised of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, the guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), and the guided-missile destroyers USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98) and USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81).

Working alongside allied and partner maritime forces, TRCSG units will focus heavily on maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts which help establish conditions for regional stability while operating in U.S. 6th Fleet.

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