USS Blue Ridge arrives in Cairns

Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Ben Larscheid | Midshipman 1st Class Maura Durso raises the ship's call sign as U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) arrives in Cairns, Australia. 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 3rd Class Ben Larscheid/Released)  

CAIRNS, ACT, AUSTRALIA

07.27.2013

Courtesy Story

USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19)

BLUE RIDGE ARRIVES IN CAIRNS
Story by USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) Public Affairs

CAIRNS, Australia - U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) arrived in Cairns, Australia while on patrol in the South Indo-Asia Pacific region July 27.

Blue Ridge is in Cairns fostering positive relations with regional partners and affording crew and embarked staff the opportunity to enjoy an area of Australia known for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef.

"We are working closely with our Australian partners to demonstrate our commitment to security and stability in the region," said Lt. Cmdr. James Coker, USS Blue Ridge operations officer. "Blue Ridge has met every expectation of this deployment on time and with the professionalism you would expect of U.S. Navy Sailors.”

While in Cairns, the crew will also be able to interact with Australian nationals, enjoy the local culture and take in all the sights.

Blue Ridge sailors will also get the unique opportunity to participate in a game of Australian football with local Australian football players in a sporting event hosted by the Royal Australian Navy.

“Each opportunity we have to interact with our allies helps strengthen our bond and better understand each other,” said Culinary Specialist 1st Class Robert Smith, Blue Ridge Morale, Welfare and Recreation sports coordinator. “I’m looking forward to learning a new sport, meeting the Australian football players and enjoying this unique experience.”

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

• Date Taken: 07.27.2013
• Date Posted: 07.27.2013 05:03
• Story ID: 110930
• Location: CAIRNS, ACT, AU