The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) returned to Naval Station Rota, Spain, March 30, after finishing its fifth forward-deployed patrol.

Donald Cook's forward presence in the Mediterranean and Atlantic Ocean, the ship's participation in Flag Officer Sea Training and its port visits with allies and partners contributed to regional stability and demonstrated the U.S.'s commitment to the collective security of the European region.

Quote:
"As Donald Cook's fifth U.S. 6th Fleet patrol comes to an end, I continue to be amazed at the absolute professionalism and resolve of our Sailors. From the waters of the Eastern Mediterranean Sea to the Northern Atlantic Ocean, I remain honored to lead the Donald Cook Team -- they are true ambassadors to Europe."
- Cmdr. Timothy Moore, USS Donald Cook commanding officer


Quick Facts:
During this patrol, Donald Cook participated in Flag Officer Sea Training and completed several U.S. training and certification events.

Donald Cook conducted four port visits, including Gaeta, Italy; Souda Bay, Greece; Plymouth, U.K.; and Cobh, Ireland.

Donald Cook participated in three community relations events and held one reception.

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.


For more information, visit http://www.navy.mil, http://www.facebook.com/usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/usnavy.


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