U.S. 6th Fleet Commander Visits CJTF-HOA Sailors

CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti (NNS) -- The U.S. 6th Fleet commander visited U.S. Navy Sailors at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Jan. 30.

The Sailors shared their mission at Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (HOA) with Vice Adm. Frank Pandolfe, who is also U.S. Naval Forces Europe and U.S. Naval Forces Africa deputy commander.

"The HOA mission is essential to security in this vital part of the world," said Pandolfe. "I've come to learn about the base, its function, the people stationed here and any issues they may have. I am extremely impressed with the Sailors I have met here. They are skilled at their specialties, are highly motivated and excited about the mission."

During Pandolfe's first visit to Camp Lemonnier, he interacted with Sailors in many sections and saw firsthand the diversity and importance of the jobs they perform.

"It was great for our leadership to see our capabilities for the Horn of Africa and the Navy in general," said Lt. Scott Pennoyer, CJTF-HOA explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) officer, following a tour of the EOD facility. "We appreciate the opportunity to showcase ourselves to the admiral."

Pennoyer explained to Pandolfe that CJTF-HOA EOD executes several missions, including port security, humanitarian aid, clearing mines in countries across the HOA region, and establishing EOD units in African partner nations.

Pandolfe extended praise to other units here, including Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 5 for its hard work during the unit's deployment. He referenced the base infrastructure, maintained by the Seabees, as the foundation of operations in this area of the world.

Pandolfe encouraged the Seabees to reflect back on their time in Djibouiti and on the difference they made.

"People across the area have been positively influenced by your work," Pandolfe said.

Pandolfe also presided over an awards ceremony that recognized several NMCB 5 Seabees for their contributions during their six-month deployment here.

"You are building the future," Pandolfe said.

U.S. 6th Fleet headquarters is located in Naples, Italy, and conducts a full range or maritime security operations and theater security cooperation missions in concert with coalition, joint, interagency and other parties in order to advance security and stability in Europe and Africa.

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For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/naveur/.