The aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) hosted a sailor
from the French Navy, Jan. 4 -6.
Quartier maître chef, the equivalent of a Culinary Specialist 1st Class, Remy, from the French navy F70AA-class air defense destroyer FS Cassard (D 35), joined John C. Stennis Sailors for a cross deck opportunity.
Having a foreign ally tour the ship was a new and interesting experience for John C. Stennis Sailors.
“It’s fascinating to see someone from another country’s navy,” said Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Sanka Harris, from Miami, and Remy's tour guide. “We got to socialize a lot, we like the same music, have the same taste for foods and we have a lot of things in common.”
Remy noted that he felt welcomed during his stay.
“I appreciate that everyone is really friendly and always willing to answer questions,” said Remy.
Although Remy easily integrated with John C. Stennis Sailors, he still experienced some differences.
“It’s totally different here with the squadrons and ship’s company, plus the constant service hours and amount of food,” said Remy. “On my ship we make one thing, say rice, and that’s what everyone eats that day. Here you have so many choices.”
Despite being out of his normal routine, Remy was able to impress the John C. Stennis culinary specialists with his skills in the kitchen.
“At first he was just observing, but when I asked him if he wanted to try things out he was ready to go,” said Harris. “He was very particular. He cooked tenderloin for the wardroom officers and it was amazing. It just melted in your mouth.”
Remy's visit was a positive learning experience for him as well as the John C. Stennis Sailors.
“He was a very quick learner who always had his hands in something,” said Harris. “After meeting Remy, I see the French as hard workers.”
John C. Stennis Sailors were not alone with feeling a strengthening in the international partnership.
“I feel so great being able to come here,” said Remy. “I really wish I could extend my time here and learn more.”
Cassard is current integrated with Combined Task Force (CTF) 50.
The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group, designated as CTF 50, is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points.
For more news on John C. Stennis, visit www.stennis.navy.mil or follow along on Facebook at www.facebook.com/stennis74.