U.S. 6th Fleet command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) departed Constanta, Romania, Oct. 20.

Mount Whitney's port visit provided Sailors an opportunity to meet with naval counterparts in order to strengthen bonds for an enhanced partnership.

Quotes:

"The USS Mount Whitney crew completed a rewarding host nation engagement while visiting Constanta, Romania. Our crew took pleasure in strengthening the bonds between the U.S. Navy, the United States and Romania through meeting and engaging with civil and military leadership, and community relations events such as a social outreach at a local youth community center and an exhibition sporting event. We continue to operate in the Black Sea demonstrating America's resolve to support European collective security through Operation Atlantic Resolve. USS Mount Whitney continues forward, engaged, and ready." - Capt. Carlos A. Sardiello, commanding officer, USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20)

Quick Facts:

The port visit to Constanta, Romania, demonstrated the shared commitment to promote safety and stability within the region, while seeking opportunities to enhance interoperability with NATO allies and partners.

Mount Whitney Sailors and embarked U.S. 6th Fleet staff provided guided ship tours, various community relations events, and held a reception aboard for distinguished guests. The U.S. Naval Forces Europe Band's New Orleans brass band, Topside, held public performances at Ovidius University and on a Romanian TV show.

Mount Whitney is currently operating in the Black Sea, working with allies and regional partners to help develop and improve our maritime forces, maintain regional security, and work towards mutual goals in order to advance security and stability in Europe.

The U.S. Navy, on a normal and routine basis, operates ships in the Black Sea consistent with the Montreux Convention and International Law.

Mount Whitney, forward deployed to Gaeta, Italy, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe.

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 http://www.navy.mil/.