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Peleliu Hosts Reception for Distinguished Visitors during Hong Kong Port Visit
Story Number: NNS130421-02
4/21/2013

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dustin Knight, Peleliu Public Affairs

HONG KONG (NNS) -- Rear Adm. Jeffrey Harley, commander, Amphibious Force 7th Fleet hosted a reception in the hangar bay aboard amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) for distinguished guests from Hong Kong, April 15.

The reception celebrated the growing relationship between the United States and the People's Republic of China and Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong.

"I've been to Hong Kong maybe seven times throughout my naval career, and every time I come back I'm delighted to receive the blessings and the grace of such a wonderful people," said Harley.

The reception included the parading of colors, the playing of the United States and People's Republic of China anthems, and remarks from Harley and Matt Matthews, acting U.S. Consul General, Hong Kong. The event concluded with a cake cutting.

In addition to Matthews, distinguished guests included Maj. Gen. Dong Chao, deputy commander, People's Liberation Army (PLA) garrison Hong Kong, as well as other members from the PLA and their guests.

"It is a great chance for our American Sailors and Marines to learn a lot about Asia and Hong Kong in particular," said Matthews. "It's also a great chance for the people of Hong Kong to show what a great time they can put on for our visitors."

The visitors toured the ship's hangar and flight deck to see the various aircraft, including a AV-8B Harrier jet, and MH-60S Knighthawk and CH-46E Sea Knight helicopters. Pilots explained aircraft capabilities and answered questions from the guests.

"I'm thankful for each and everyone's attendance here," Harley said. "It was through that dialogue; it was through those contacts; and it is through that friendship that we develop with events like this that can carry us forward, in spite of the complex issues that we address in this very complex and dynamic world."

Peleliu's port visit represents an important opportunity to promote peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, demonstrate commitment to regional partners and foster growing relationships. Peleliu is the flagship for the Peleliu Amphibious Assault Group on deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility with amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20), amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) and embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit.


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