The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) departed Algiers, Algeria, March 7, 2019, after completing a scheduled port visit.
“This port visit gave us the unique opportunity to meet with the people of Algiers, and to experience the rich history and culture of Algeria,” said Command Master Chief Jeremy Douglas.
“Engaging with our Algerian partners strengthens bonds as we work toward mutual goals, ultimately leading to an increase in peace and prosperity throughout the region.”
During the port visit, Sailors participated in three Morale, Welfare and Recreation tours of the city.
The ship additionally hosted a reception on March 6 attended by U.S. Ambassador for the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria John Desrocher and Adm. James G. Foggo III, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa.
Following the port visit, the ship is scheduled to conduct maritime interoperability training with the Algerian navy.
This is Donald Cook’s eighth forward-deployed naval forces patrol since arriving at Naval Station Rota, Spain, in February 2014.
While on patrol, Donald Cook is scheduled to continue naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.
U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.