By Ensign Grace Strong, USS Cape St. George Public Affairs
Singapore - The Ticonderoga class guided missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71) arrived in Singapore Aug. 20 for a good will and friendship building port visit as well as a voyage repair maintenance availability.
Prior to arriving in Singapore, the ship participated in the 2014 Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC), the world’s largest naval exercise with 49 ships from 22 countries. The exercise provided invaluable partnership building with other navies through participation in training operations, including large and small caliber gun fire, visit, board, search and seizure operations and a missile launch. In addition, Cape St. George Sailors enjoyed time ashore in Hawaii participating in the RIMPAC sporting events where they were able to meet and interact with sailors from the other participating countries.
“I truly enjoyed the opportunity to participate in the sporting events at RIMPAC,” said Operations Specialist 2nd class Colin J. Black. “It was a great experience to meet and interact with people from navies around the world. I am looking forward to going to Singapore because I learned a lot about the country while talking to Singaporean sailors during RIMPAC.”
While in port Singapore, Sailors explored the local area and enjoyed Singaporean hospitality. The ship also organized and participated in two community outreach projects.
“Cape is thankful for the excellent repairs the Singaporeans made, and proud to be part of the Navy’s mission to strengthen relationships abroad,” said Lt. Cmdr Roderick Magee, Cape St. George’s executive officer. “Our Sailors have enjoyed the opportunity to learn about and experience a different culture. Our visit to Singapore has been positive, and we are glad to support the United States’ vision for maritime security through in-port interactions.”
Cape St. George left its home port of San Diego June 16 for its 2014 independent deployment to 7th Fleet area of operations supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.