Gen. David Rodriguez, commander, U.S. Africa Command, visited the guided-missile frigate USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58), during the ship’s visit to Augusta Bay, June 11.
During the visit, Rodriguez, and Capt. John Esposito, commander, Task Force 65, toured the ship with Cmdr. Robert Williams, Samuel B. Roberts commanding officer. Rodriquez concluded his visit with an address to the ship’s crew, and with administrating the oath of enlistment for some attendees.
“It is not everyday that you get a four-star General to reenlist you,” said Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Michael Terry. “This will be one of the highlights of my naval career.”
For many Sailors, the visit was a chance to recharge.
“The deployment has been interesting thus far due to being a part of a multi-faceted mission,” said Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class Brian West.
Samuel B. Roberts, homeported in Mayport, Fla., is on a scheduled deployment supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa area of responsibility.
[mappress] Press Release, June 14, 2013; Image: US Navy