MARSEILLE, France - The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) arrived in Marseille, France, for a scheduled port visit Dec. 16, 2016 to enhance U.S.-France relations as the two nations work together for a stable, secure and prosperous Europe.

Quote:

"The Sailors of USS Dwight D. Eisenhower are excited to be in the beautiful city of Marseille, and we are looking forward to experiencing the rich history and culture of France,"
"Engagements such as these strengthen the bonds between our two countries as we work toward mutual goals. France is one of our closest allies and I am extremely pleased that we are able to share this port visit with them and strengthen our maritime partnership. We are very grateful for their hospitality and I know this will be a memorable visit for our Sailors."

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Commanding Officer, Capt. Paul C. Spedero Jr.

Quick Facts:

* In addition to touring the city of Marseille, Sailors will have the opportunity to build those memories during various tours offered by Ike's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program. To further promote ambassadorship and reinforce that the U.S.-French alliance is committed to maintaining safety and security of the world's ocean, Ike's crew will host a reception aboard the ship. More than 400 guests will come aboard to celebrate the commitment both nations have to maintaining the right presence where it is needed, when it is needed.

* Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group Conducted strikes into Syria and Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve Dec. 6-12, while operating in the Mediterranean Sea, in order to degrade ISIL resources and leadership.

* Strengthening alliances during the port visit to Marseille demonstrates the shared commitment we have to promote safety and stability within the region, while seeking opportunities to enhance our interoperability with partners like France.

* Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group departed Norfolk, Va., June 1, 2016.

* The Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group consists of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26 staff, USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), guided-missile cruisers USS San Jacinto (CG 56) and USS Monterey (CG 61), and guided-missile destroyers USS Stout (DDG 55), USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), USS Mason (DDG 87) and USS Nitze (DDG 94)
* USS Dwight D. Eisenhower deployed to support maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations.
* The deployment is part of a regular rotation of forces to support maritime security operations, provide crisis response capability, and increase theater security cooperation and forward naval presence in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations.
* 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.

From U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs



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