HELSINKI, Finland –
The guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) departed Helsinki, Republic of Finland, after a brief port visit Sep. 23, 2024. It marked the first time a U.S. Navy ship visited Finland since the country joined NATO in April 2023.
While in port the crew engaged with representatives of the Finnish Navy. The vessel was hosted by Finnish Navy Capt. (Navy) Patrik Lillqvist, as well as the 7th Surface Warfare Squadron of the Coastal Fleet. The crew of the Normandy had the opportunity to welcome representatives of the Finnish Defense Forces onboard for tours, providing time for meaningful binational engagement.
"We couldn't be more excited to be the first U.S. Navy warship to pull into Finland since they joined NATO," said U.S. Navy Capt. Nathan P. Diaz, USS Normandy’s commanding officer. "The United States has had a long-lasting relationship with Finland and we look forward to a sustained future together as a NATO Ally."
After departing Finland, USS Normandy continues its patrol in the U.S. Navy’s 6th Fleet area of operations.