The guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99) departed La Rochelle, France, following a four-day visit, Sept. 10.
During the visit, Farragut hosted a luncheon and tours for senior civilian and military officials.
“It was my pleasure to bring Farragut to La Rochelle for the first visit by a U.S. warship in more than a decade,” said Cmdr. Glen B. Quas t, commanding officer of Farragut. “The city’s support for our Sailors was extraordinary, and it is clear that both nations cherish our unique alliance and share a common vision for the future security and stability of Europe.”
Farragut’s sports teams participated in a softball and soccer game against local French teams, while other Sailors conducted community service projects at the Centre Lannelongue in St. Trojan, a technical high school located on Ile d’Oleron.
Sailors were also provided a number of tour options offered by the ship’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation department.
“I loved France,” said Information Systems Technician Seaman Levi Hutson. “I got to go on a few tours and it was interesting to learn about France’s history and culture.”
Farragut is on a scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, September 12, 2012; Image: US Navy