USS Monterey Completes Port Visit to Livorno, Italy

LIVORNO, Italy (NNS) -- The guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61) departed Livorno, Italy April 26, after a three-day port visit.

While in port, Monterey hosted a luncheon and tour for Italian Rear Adm. Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, superintendent of the Italian naval academy, and members of his staff.

Midshipmen from the naval academy also toured the ship and met members of the crew.

"The tour allowed the admiral, members of the Italian naval academy staff and midshipmen a chance to better understand the U.S. Navy's capabilities...and strengthen the relationship between the Sailors of both countries," said Capt. Thomas Kiss, Monterey's commanding officer.

During the port visit, the ship's soccer team had the opportunity to play against a team from Camp Darby, a U.S. base located between Pisa and Livorno. Monterey Sailors were also able to tour Rome, Venice, Florence, Cinque Terra, and Pisa.

"Our port visit to Livorno provided us a unique opportunity to visit this part of Italy, meet the local populace, and experience the amazing local culture," said Kiss. "The crew had a great time and were fantastic ambassadors for the United States and the U.S. Navy."

Monterey, homeported in Norfolk, Va., is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

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