Submarine tender USS Emory S. Land (AS 39) arrived in Sepangar, Malaysia, for a port call April 1, continuing the Navy’s ongoing commitment to theater security cooperation and partnership with allied navies and promoting peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific Region.
“I consider it a privilege to visit Malaysia and continue to build our partnership with the Royal Malaysian Navy, ” said Capt. Paul E. Savage , Emory S. Land’s commanding officer. “The relationship forged between our two navies contributes to the peace, security, and stability of the region, and also gives our 600 Sailors an opportunity to experience the Malaysian culture and a beautiful country.”
While it is Savage’s first port call in Malaysia, this marks a return visit for many of his crew. Both submarine tenders, USS Frank Cable (AS 40) and Land, visited Kota Kinabalu in the past year. Many Cable Sailors are temporarily assigned to Land in an expeditionary capacity while Cable undergoes a scheduled dry-docking availability in Portland, Ore.
“This will be my third time in Malaysia, and it has always been one of the friendliest and most fun ports to visit,” said machinist’s mate 2nd class Jose Cardona , a Cable Sailor serving aboard Land. “I can’t wait to get out there and experience more of the country.”
While in port, Land will host Sailors of the Royal Malaysian Navy as well as citizens of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Land Sailors will also be participating in community service projects that include visits to a local children’s hospital and orphanage, and possible sporting events between Land crew members and local members of the Royal Malaysian Navy.
“These opportunities will allow the Sailors from both countries to share experiences and develop professional relationships,” said Land’s Command Master Chief James Willis . “These types of international experiences stay with you for a lifetime.”
During the port visit, Emory S. Land will exercise its submarine support capabilities by tending a Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine.
Land, homeported in Diego Garcia, is on an extended deployment and has been in Guam since Nov. 2011 serving as the primary afloat maintenance activity in the U.S. 7th fleet area of operations until USS Frank Cable’s return.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff , April 03, 2012; Image: navy