The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Stout (DDG 55) departed Naval Station Norfolk for a routine group sail with other ships from Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26, Oct. 29.

Stout will sail alongside the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers USS Mason (DDG 87), USS Nitze (DDG 94) and the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS San Jacinto (CG 56).

"Group sail provides an amazing opportunity for Stout to transition from conducting unit level training, to conducting integrated operations with other ships in DESRON-26 and Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10," said Stout's Commanding Officer Cmdr. Adam G. Cheatham, who took command Oct. 28. "This enables Team Stout to merge our war fighting expertise with the rest of the squadron, resulting in a stronger fighting force."

Throughout the group sail, the ships will work together, practicing scenarios and operations they may face during a full deployment.

"Going underway really helps the crew train to keep their cool when we're put under stressful situations we may face while on deployments," said Cryptologic Technician (Technology) 3rd Class Chayston Alexander.

Stout is conducting routine training and operations in preparation for its upcoming deployment.

To find out more about USS Stout, visit http://www.stout.navy.mil