BLACK SEA –
The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) departed Batumi, Georgia on April 25, 2019 after completing a scheduled port visit as part of its continued presence and support to NATO allies and regional partners.
While in port, the ship facilitated tours to local government officials, U.S. Embassy personnel, and students of the Georgian Maritime Academy and National Defense Academy.
Additionally, Ross Sailors participated in community relations projects such as tree planting and soccer matches with the Georgian Maritime Academy. Ross also hosted a reception on its flight deck.
“The close relationship between our nations extends much further than military to military,” said Cmdr. Dave Coles, commanding officer of Ross. “Our relationship is born of shared values and vision - it is personal.”
Ross entered the Black Sea on April 14, 2019 to strengthen interoperability with NATO allies and partners and demonstrate collective resolve to security in the region.
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.