The port visit provides an opportunity to further strengthen the enduring relationship between the United States and Greece and allow the Sailors of Truxtun a chance to experience the allied nation’s culture.
Truxtun’s port visit to Souda Bay is indicative of the strength of the strong and enduring military, diplomatic, and economic relationship between the U.S. and Greek allies.
During their time in Souda Bay, Sailors from Truxtun will have the opportunity to explore the island of Crete and partake in Cretan history, cuisine, and culture excursions. It is the ship’s second port visit since departing Norfolk, Aug. 11, for a regularly scheduled deployment.
"Truxtun's officers and crew are thrilled to experience the natural beauty, hospitality, and local culture during our port visit in Souda Bay,” said Cmdr. Adam Miller, commanding officer of Truxtun. “We value and appreciate the relationship we have with our ally Greece and we welcome this opportunity to strengthen our bond.”
The ship’s Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) team distributed valuable information about tours available for Sailors to experience the region. Trips include daylong hikes, wineries, museums, and excursions to well-known historical and cultural sites.
In addition to MWR trips, the command religious ministry department highlighted unique opportunities to participate in religious worship at the historic Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, Chania.
"I joined the Navy because I wanted to travel and experience new cultures,” said Personnel Specialist 3rd Class Ebot Ngoe. “I am ecstatic because I have always wanted to see Greece. I’m looking forward to the adventure and making brand-new memories with my shipmates.”
The George H.W. Bush CSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.
The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush is the flagship of CSG-10, GHWB CSG. CSG-10 is comprised of George H.W. Bush, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26, the Information Warfare Commander, and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55).
The ships of DESRON 26 within CSG-10 are USS Nitze (DDG 94), USS Farragut (DDG 99), Truxtun, and USS Delbert D. Black (DDG 119).
The squadrons of CVW-7 embarked aboard George H.W. Bush are the “Sidewinders” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 86, the “Jolly Rogers” of VFA-103, the “Nighthawks” of VFA-136, the “Pukin Dogs” of VFA-143, the “Bluetails” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, the “Patriots” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, the “Nightdippers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, and the “Grandmasters” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46.
For over 80 years, NAVEUR-NAVAF has forged strategic relationships with allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability.
Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations.