The San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) arrived in Reykjavik, Iceland, for a scheduled port visit Oct. 17.

The ship's port visit serves to enhance U.S.-Iceland relations as the two nations work together with 31 allies and partner nations in the upcoming Trident Juncture exercise. Trident Juncture 18 will take place in Norway and the surrounding areas of the North Atlantic and the Baltic Sea, including Iceland and the airspace of Finland and Sweden.

More than 40,000 participants are expected to take part in the NATO exercise. Of that, more than 14,000 U.S. service members are scheduled to participate, including troops and equipment from each branch of service. Around 150 aircraft, 70 ships and more than 10,000 vehicles will be used during the exercise. U.S. participation in this multinational exercise enhances our professional relationships and improves overall coordination with ally and partner militaries during times of crisis.

"Our crew and Marines are excited for the opportunity [to] visit Iceland, said Capt. Brent DeVore, commanding officer aboard New York. “It's an unique and beautiful country, and only a very small handful of our team has had the chance to visit before. For many of us, this is a first-time visit. We look forward to learning about the rich history and culture of our Icelandic partners."

The blue green teams will be able to participate in Morale, Welfare and Recreation tours to the Thingvellir National Park, UNESCO site, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the bubbling hot springs and spouting geyser at Haukardalur. Sailors and Marines will also be able to take a dip in the world-famous Blue Lagoon.

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