Preble arrives in Freemantle

FREMANTLE, AUSTRALIA

06.24.2015

Courtesy Story

Amphibious Squadron 11

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alonzo M. Archer, Amphibious Squadron Eleven Public Affairs

FREMANTLE, Australia – The guided-missile destroyer USS Preble (DDG 88), arrived in Fremantle, Australia, June 25, for a scheduled port visit.

Preble’s Sailors, of all ranks, stood at parade rest in their dress blue uniforms all along the perimeter of the ship as they entered port. This is called “manning the rails,” a gesture symbolizing respect and friendship between the U.S. Navy and its host.

Cmdr. Jeffrey Heames, commanding officer of Preble, spoke on his ship's plan for their time in Australia.

“We are getting ready to train with the Australian military, and the perfect start is a port visit to Fremantle,” said Heames. “We’ve had allies and partners in this region for over 70 years, and we only look to strengthen those relationships. In addition to training, we’re also conducting multiple community service events throughout our stay, and I am proud to say there has been resounding interest from our Sailors to participate in these events.”

Cryptologic Technician 2nd Class Jacklyn Maher, from West Des Moines, Iowa, is one of many Sailors on board Preble looking forward to getting involved during the ship’s visit to Fremantle.

“I’ve been on board Preble for about a month, and this is going to be my first port visit,” said Maher. “I’ve signed up for nearly everything, I couldn’t be more excited. As a cryptologic technician, I had a pretty lengthy 'A' school, about a year and a half. I’m happy to finally be in the fleet, making an impact in the Navy, and also in communities around the world.”

Preble is attached to the Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group and is on patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

• Date Taken: 06.24.2015
• Date Posted: 06.24.2015 21:20
• Story ID: 168021
• Location: FREMANTLE, AU
• Hometown: WEST DES MOINES, IA, US