USS Stout Visits the Netherlands

DEN HELDER, NETHERLANDS

10.16.2010

Courtesy Story

U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. Sixth Fleet

By Lt. Zachary Harrell
Destroyer Squadron 24 Public Affairs

DEN HELDER, Netherlands – The guided-missile destroyer USS Stout anchored off the coast of Den Helder, Netherlands, Oct. 16, after a challenging and successful Joint Warrior 10-2.

Joint Warrior is a multinational exercise planned and led by the Joint Tactical Exercise Planning Staff in the United Kingdom. It is designed to improve interoperability between allied navies and prepare participating crews to conduct combined operations during deployment. The exercise, involving more than 10 countries, as well as NATO forces, took place predominantly off the coast of Scotland.

“Joint Warrior allowed us to train in all aspects of ship operations with some of our closest allies,” said Cmdr. Mark Oberley, commanding officer aboard Stout. “We operated as a joint task force, giving our sailors the practice and experience they will need to conduct operations with our coalition partners when called upon.”

With Joint Warrior 10-2 complete, the crew will get a chance to enjoy liberty in one of the most unique regions in Europe.

“We’re definitely looking forward to experiencing the culture and hospitality of the Netherlands,” said Oberley. “Our sailors have been working extremely hard, and our brief stop here affords them the opportunity for some well-deserved liberty.”

After the Den Helder visit, the ship will commence the transatlantic voyage back to its homeport of Norfolk.

• Date Taken: 10.16.2010
• Date Posted: 10.18.2010 06:28
• Story ID: 58298
• Location: DEN HELDER, NL