USS Philippine Sea visits Georgia

Photo By Chief Petty Officer Gary Prill | Capt. Herbert Hadley, commanding officer of USS Philippine Sea, speaks with members of the Georgian media shortly after arriving in port. Philippine Sea is on a regularly scheduled deployment in the Black Sea and serves to promote peace and security in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Gary Prill)  

BATUMI, GEORGIA

10.17.2011

Courtesy Story

U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. Sixth Fleet

By Petty Officer 2nd Class Gary A. Prill
Navy Public Affairs Support Element-East Detachment Sigonella

BATUMI, Georgia – The guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea pulled into Batumi, Georgia, Oct. 17, and was welcomed by traditional Georgian dancers, local media, and military and civilian leaders.

“This is a great partnership building opportunity for our crew,” said Capt. Herbert Hadley, commanding officer of Philippine Sea. “The crew will be given a chance to interact with the host nation on a personal level through military-to-military training courses and community service projects. This is a great way to strengthen the friendship between our countries.”

While inport, the crew will participate in basic boat maintenance; electronics; damage control evolutions and boarding operations.

“These training opportunities are a huge benefit to not only the students but also the instructors,” said Philippine Sea Command Master Chief Petty Officer Scott Kircher. “It will truly be a learning environment for everyone involved. We encourage the students to share their experiences so that the instructors can benefit and get a better idea of what areas are in need of improvement.”

The crew will also hold a reception and conduct a beach clean-up with local residents.

“Community service projects show a true form of goodwill that Sailors can offer to the countries that open their ports and allow us to enjoy their beautiful culture,” said Lt. Jonathan Black, Philippine Sea’s command chaplain.

Philippine Sea is on a regularly scheduled deployment in the Black Sea and serves to promote peace and security in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

• Date Taken: 10.17.2011
• Date Posted: 10.17.2011 12:24
• Story ID: 78617
• Location: BATUMI, GE