Adm. Mark Ferguson, commander, U.S Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF), and NAVEUR-NAVAF Fleet Master Chief Steven Giordano paid a visit to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, Sicily, and held an all-hands call, Jan. 21.

When asked about what he believes is the greatest change during his hard career, Ferguson remarked on the significant role of global connectivity, the evolution of information technology, and the professionalization of the enlisted force. He also used the all-hands call to thank Sailors for their professionalism and dedication.

Quote:

"When the history books are written, it will be about the transformation of the all-volunteer force. You are the finest military in the world." - Adm. Mark Ferguson, Commander, U.S Naval Forces Europe-Africa

Quick Facts:

Ferguson visited Sailors at Patrol Squadron 9 and ate lunch with Sailors at the base galley. During the visit, Mrs. Ferguson and Mrs. Giordano toured base housing, the Fleet and Family Support Center, the hospital, schools and met with the NAS Sigonella ombudsman to hear about quality of life issues.

During the all-hands call, Ferguson remarked on the increased tempo of operations in the European theater. He spoke to the growing strategic importance of NAS Sigonella as a central hub against a backdrop of Navy mission growth in Europe.

Following his remarks, Ferguson answered questions from Sailors on topics including enhanced security, particularly in Europe, billet-based distribution and the testing of biofuels in the Navy as part of the Great Green Fleet initiative.

Naval Air Station Sigonella: "The Hub of the Med," is a U.S. Navy installation and an Italian Air Force base in Sicily, Italy. NAS Sigonella is the Navy's second largest security command, second only to that located at Naval Support Activity Bahrain. Because of its location near the center of the Mediterranean Sea, NAS Sigonella is well placed to support operations by the U.S. 6th Fleet, other U.S. military units, and U.S. allies and coalition partners.

U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, headquartered in Naples, Italy, oversees joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied, joint, and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests, security and stability in Europe and Africa.

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