The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) departed Cobh, Ireland, March 25, 2016, after a scheduled port visit to enhance U.S.-Irish relations as the two nations work together for a stable, secure and prosperous European region.

The ship's presence in the North Atlantic Ocean is a demonstration of continued commitment to the collective security of the European region.

"Our Sailors thoroughly enjoyed the superb hospitality of our Irish hosts during this visit," said Cmdr. Timothy Moore, USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) commanding officer. "We had the awesome opportunity to meet with the people of Cobh and Cork and to experience the rich history and culture of Ireland. The enduring friendship between our countries is strong as many of my Sailors can trace their heritage to the local area."

USS Donald Cook is working with allies and regional partners to help develop and improve maritime forces, maintain regional security, and work towards mutual goals in order to advance security and stability in Europe.

While in port, Donald Cook hosted a reception and Sailors participated in a community relations (COMREL) event.

Strengthening partnerships during the port visit to Ireland demonstrates enduring relationships and shared commitment to promote safety and stability within the region, while seeking opportunities to enhance interoperability with partners like Ireland.

USS Donald Cook, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is conducting a routine patrol in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe. The ship departed from Naval Station Rota Dec. 3, 2016.

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