The future amphibious assault ship future USS America (LHA 6) welcomed distinguished visitors from El Salvador aboard the vessel for a key leader engagement (KLE) Sept. 8.
The KLE consisted of a tour of the ship, a formal lunch with the ship’s command and a leadership conference.
After coming aboard, guests, including U.S. Ambassador to El Salvador Mari Carmen Aponte, Vice-President of El Salvador Oscar Ortiz, along with key Salvadoran military leaders, were escorted to a meet-and-greet with the ships leadership and crew.
Ambassador Aponte expressed her gratitude and respect for the Marines and Sailors aboard, setting the tone for the rest of the visit.
The tour was made up of multiple static displays showcasing the assets and capabilities that the Marines of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force South bring to the ship.
The time aboard the ship was concluded with a leadership conference held in the ship’s wardroom. The conference emphasized the importance of partnership between the U.S and El Salvador, specifically addressing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief concerns in the region.
America is now bound for her home port in San Diego. The SPMAGTF is embarked aboard America in support of her maiden transit, “America Visits the Americas.”