The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Bainbridge (DDG 96) arrived in Kiel, Germany, June 15 to participate in Kiel Week 2018.

Bainbridge arrived in Kiel after participating in exercise Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) 2018. Bainbridge's participation in BALTOPS 2018 is a demonstration of our continued commitment to the collective security in the region. The visit during Kiel Week enhances our enduring relationship with Germany and the citizens of Kiel.

Quote:

"Operating among so many of our allied and partner nations over the past two weeks during BALTOPS has been a remarkable opportunity for the crew. The energetic performance of all participants in this exercise is a tremendous example of the interoperability and strength of our partner and allied nations afloat. While the crew has greatly benefited from these operations at sea, we are very excited to close the exercise in Germany during the Kiel Week festivities. It doesn't get much better than operating in a dynamic environment at sea followed by spending some well-deserved time ashore during this world-famous celebration."

Cmdr. Patrick Murphy
Commanding officer, USS Bainbridge

"Working with these partner navies [during BALTOPS] provided a unique opportunity for the crew to see interoperability at work, from communications and data links to sailing in close quarters. We are looking forward to arriving in Kiel and participating in all the festivities that Kiel Week has to offer. Interacting with our partners ashore will merely help to cement the relationships that we have built at sea. The crew has been running hard and deserves this well-earned break."

Cmdr. Mary Devine
Executive officer, USS Bainbridge

Quick Facts:

* Kiel Week is an annual maritime festival event held in Kiel, Germany, and is the largest event of its type in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. While in Kiel, the Sailors will participate in Kiel Week events with many of our NATO allies and partners, strengthening our enduring relationships throughout the North Atlantic and European region.

* Bainbridge is one of three U.S. ships visiting Kiel following their participation in BALTOPS, the premier annual maritime-focused exercise in the Baltic region and one of the largest exercises in Northern Europe enhancing flexibility and interoperability among allied and partner nations.

* U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.