The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) departed Zeebrugge, Belgium, following a scheduled port call, on Oct. 9.

Sailors took the opportunity to spend time experiencing the culture and enjoying some well-deserved down time.

“Zeebrugge was a fantastic port,” said Lt. Cmdr. Jeremiah Petersen, executive officer of Normandy. “Not only did we put in a lot of good work forging stronger relations with a key NATO ally, but we also got the chance to relax and unwind in the gorgeous scenery that envelops all of Belgium. I look forward to the opportunity to visit again.”

During the visit, Normandy also hosted a reception to celebrate U.S.-Belgian partnerships as they work together for a stable, secure and prosperous Europe. The reception was attended by five ambassadors, the governor of West Flanders, several senior Belgian military officials and military representatives from 12 Nations.

“No nation can confront today’s challenges alone,” said Rear Adm. Roy Kitchener, the U.S. Deputy Military Representative to the NATO Military Committee. “Together, we have the capability and the capacity to enforce security, enhance stability and deter aggression for a safe and peaceful Europe.”

Normandy is homeported in Norfolk, Va., and is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.  Normandy is currently deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is conducting operations in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations.

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