Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74) participated in a joint ceremony with the armed forces of Spain honoring fallen members of the military throughout history, during a scheduled port visit in Malaga, Spain, May 7.

The U.S. Embassy in Spain, Spanish military, government of Malaga, and Bernardo de Galvez Association worked in concert to achieve McFaul's participation in the ceremony - marking the first time a United States Navy warship has ever participated in an activity of this kind in Spain.

Quote:
"This day is a testament to the strong ties and heritage shared between our two nations. It is our earnest desire that we have the opportunity to return and that America and Spain continue this remembrance long into the future."
- Cmdr. Michael J. Gunther, USS McFaul commanding officer

Quick Facts:
* The ceremony is the hallmark event of McFaul's visit to Spain, which coincides with the 234th anniversary of the Spanish Lt. Gen. Bernardo de Galvez's capture of Pensacola during the American War of Independence on May 8, 1781, resulting in the eviction of the British forces from the Florida territory and the establishment of a crucial Southern front to provide relief to General Washington's forces.

* Galvez is a well-respected historical figure in Spain, particularly in the Malaga region. Due to his significance in the success of the American Revolution, Congress granted him honorary American citizenship through House Joint Resolution 105 in December 2014.

* Following the ceremony, McFaul hosted members of the Spanish military, government, and influential citizens of Malaga aboard the ship for a reception.

* In attendance at the reception was Admiral of the Spanish Fleet Santiago Bolbar Piñeiro attended the reception and bestowed the wishes of the Spanish Navy for "fair winds and following seas" to the officers and crew of USS McFaul.

* McFaul, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-destroyer, homeported in Norfolk, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe.

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