The U.S. 6th Fleet flagship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) arrived in Theoule-sur-Mer, France, Aug. 14, to commemorate the 68th anniversary of allied troops landing in Provence during World War II.
During the visit, Sailors will participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Cross of Lorraine monument to commemorate the allied landings at Cannes and Nice, participate in a parade honoring American and French service members, as well as spend time experiencing the city’s history and culture.
“The crew of Mount Whitney is thrilled to be returning to the beautiful shores of Theoule-sur-Mer and further enhance our long standing friendship with France, ” said Capt. Ted Williams , commanding officer of Mount Whitney. “We are humbled and honored to be here to pay tribute to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice during the Liberation of Provence.”
Mount Whitney’s arrival in Theoule-sur-Mer marks the second consecutive year the ship has taken part in the festivities organized by the city.
Mount Whitney, homeported in Gaeta, Italy, is the U.S. 6th Fleet flagship and operates with a combined crew of U.S. Sailors and MSC civil service mariners. The civil service mariners perform navigation, deck, engineering, laundry and galley service operations, while military personnel aboard support communications, weapons systems and security.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, August 15, 2012; Image: US Navy