Sailors and Marines aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) arrived in Port Victoria, Seychelles for a port visit, Aug. 25.
The port visit serves to continue Naval Forces Europe-Africa efforts to strengthen maritime partnerships with East Africa nations like Seychelles in order to enhance regional stability.
While in Seychelles, the ship will host a reception for dignitaries and military officials. Sailors and Marines will also have the opportunity to experience the local culture and conduct a community service project at a local school.
“Seychelles is looking forward to having us and we are very much looking forward to being here,” said Cmdr. Gregory D. Blyden, commanding officer of Carter Hall. “Seychelles is an opportunity for our Sailors and Marines to relax and enjoy some well-deserved liberty.”
Carter Hall is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet area of responsibility.
[mappress] Press Release, August 26, 2013