John C. Stennis departs Marseille, France

Photo By Ikenna S Tanaka | U.S. Navy Operational Specialist 2nd Class Martin Medina, from Devine, Texas, stands watch as the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) pulls out of Marseille, France, May 1, 2019. The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) is deployed in support of maritime security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ikenna Tanaka)  

MARSEILLE, FRANCE

05.01.2019

Courtesy Story

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74)

The aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) departed Marseille following a scheduled port visit, May 1.

During the port visit, U.S. Sailors participated in community outreach events sponsored by the Command Religious Ministry department, participated in Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) tours and experienced the local culture.

The community outreach event opportunities provided for Sailors included the Blue Stars Football Club, The Rhone American Cemetery and worked at a Marseille primary school.

“It’s an amazing experience,” said Katia Ikhlef, a teacher at Ensfignement Catholique Diocese de Marseille. “Getting the chance to have Americans around the children and staff is surreal.”

MWR hosted tours to attractions such as the Notre Dame de la Garde, the Cathedral of the Major and Mucem Nation Museum.

The John C. Stennis also hosted a reception event during the port visit. The event was attended by guests from Algeria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Egypt, France, Great Britain, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, and the United States.

“It is critical to continue to show fidelity around the world and operate together,” said Rear Adm. Michael Wettlaufer, commander, Carrier Strike Group 3.

Togetherness was a theme shared throughout this visit. Establishing camaraderie and building bonds with other nations is part of the Navy’s mission in port.

The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group (JCSCSG) is deployed in support of maritime security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

For more news on John C. Stennis visit www.stennis.navy.mil or follow along on Facebook at www.facebook.com/stennis74.

• Date Taken: 05.01.2019
• Date Posted: 05.01.2019 14:41
• Story ID: 320318
• Location: MARSEILLE, FR