Blue Ridge arrives in Sydney

Photo By Samuel Weldin | U.S. 7th Fleet Flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) sails into Sydney. Blue Ridge port visits represent an opportunity to promote peace and stability in the South Indo-Asia-Pacific region, demonstrate commitment to regional partners and foster growing relationships. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Third Class Samuel Weldin/Released)  

SYDNEY , AUSTRALIA

07.13.2013

Courtesy Story

USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19)

SYDNEY – U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) sailed into Sydney Harbor for a scheduled port visit July 13.

Blue Ridge crew members, embarked 7th Fleet staff and Marines from Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team Pacific (FASTPAC) will experience Australia’s culture through various morale, welfare and recreation (MWR) tours and community service (COMSERV) events, including a visit to the Sydney Children’s Hospital and two schools.

“I’m going to visit the Sydney Secondary College for a question and answer session with some of the students,” said Yeoman 3rd Class Joseph Hollen, “I think this will be a good chance to tell people what we do, and what it’s like living on a U.S. Navy ship.”

While in port, U.S. 7th Fleet staff will begin preparing for Operation Talisman Sabre, continuing a strong relationship with Australian allies and ensuring unified readiness.

“In Sydney, 296 personnel will embark on Blue Ridge in coordination with the exercise,” said Royal Australian Navy Lt. Cmdr. Matthew Dunn, U.S. 7th Fleet’s lead planner for Talisman Sabre. “Talisman Sabre is comprised of Australian and U.S. military, creating Coalition Task Force (CTF) 660 and will enhance our ability to understand each other’s tactics for future missions.”

Blue Ridge will also be hosting a “Big Top” social event during the port visit. Distinguished visitors, local dignitaries, military leaders and members of the community will come aboard to take part in the ceremony, strengthening the bond between the United States and Australia.

Blue Ridge port visits represent an opportunity to promote peace and stability in the South Indo-Asia-Pacific region. As flagship for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, VADM Scott Swift, Blue Ridge is crucial in demonstrating commitment to regional partners and fostering growing relationships.

• Date Taken: 07.13.2013
• Date Posted: 07.13.2013 05:51
• Story ID: 110155
• Location: SYDNEY , AU