By Commander Surface Force Atlantic Public Affairs
MAYPORT, Fla. - The USS Carney (DDG 64) departed her homeport of Mayport, Florida, Sept. 6 on her way to Rota, Spain, as the final of four Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers to be forward deployed to Spain.
To enhance the security of the European region, Carney will join USS Donald Cook (DDG 75), USS Ross (DDG 71), and USS Porter (DDG 78) who have already made the transition to Spain.
“USS Carney and her crew will play a crucial role in the U.S. contribution to NATO’s ballistic missile defense efforts,” said Vice Adm. James Foggo III, commander, U.S. 6th Fleet. “Our forward deployed naval forces (FDNF) based in Rota provide a credible capability and support NATO’s broader commitment to regional security.”
These multi-mission ships perform a myriad of tasks including NATO ballistic missile defense, the full spectrum of maritime security operations, bi-lateral and multi-lateral training exercises, and other NATO operations and deployments.
“It’s been a tremendous time; a big event in a ship’s life and a big event for the crew. It’s been an honor and a pleasure to lead this crew through it,” said Capt. Ken Pickard, commanding officer of Carney. “We are 300-strong ambassadors to Spain…you’re not going to find a greater group of Americans than the Sailors that crew this ship.”