The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) arrived in Theoule-sur-Mer, France, for a scheduled port visit Aug. 13, 2015.

Such port visits not only serve to commemorate our heritage and the defeat of tyranny in Europe, but also enhance U.S.-France relations as the two nations work together for a stable, secure, and prosperous region.

Quick Facts:
"We are pleased to be here in southern France to commemorate the 71st anniversary of Operation Dragoon, which played a pivotal role in driving German forces from French soil during World War II. We're forever indebted to the veterans of this "Greatest Generation" and their sacrifice for a free and stable Europe"

- Cmdr. Charles Hampton, USS Donald Cook Commanding Officer

Quotes:
* The primary reason for the port visit was to commemorate the 71st Anniversary of the allied liberation of southern France in August, 1944.

* Donald Cook will participate in a community relations project at Rhone American Cemetery, host a reception for the U.S. Consul General, and participate in various other ceremonies around the area.

* In addition, this port visit provides another opportunity to meet with the people of France and to experience the rich history and culture of France.

* USS Donald Cook is the first of four Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers to be forward deployed to Rota, Spain, and is on its third routine patrol in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations. Currently, Donald Cook is assigned to Standing NATO Maritime Group Two (SNMG2), conducting naval operations in support of NATO's counter-terrorism operation Active Endeavour.

* USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) is part of the Forward Deployed Naval Forces (FDNF) station in Rota, Spain, and, is on a regularly scheduled patrol in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts 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.

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