The guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99) arrived in Portsmouth, England, April 23 for a scheduled port visit to enhance U.S. and U.K. relations as the two nations work together for a stable, secure and prosperous Europe.

"I think this visit is a great chance to renew our links to NATO and the special relationship we share with the U.K., while also getting a quick taste of Britain and the naval history Portsmouth offers," said Cmdr. Casey Baker, Farragut's commanding officer.

Portsmouth is Farragut's first port visit since departing Naval Station Mayport April 11 for a scheduled deployment.

"We are honored to be in historic Portsmouth and look forward to the hospitality and culture of the local region," said Cmdr. Jason Lester, Farragut's executive officer.

For some Sailors aboard Farragut, Portsmouth will be their first time visiting another country and will give them the opportunity to experience a new and different culture.

"Being immersed in the culture of Portsmouth will be a new experience, but I am eager to learn about the history it is filled with," said Boatswain's Mate Seaman Brennan Scoggins. "Portsmouth has a lot of naval history, which is exciting as a Sailor as it will allow me to see the differences between past and present naval forces."

Farragut is currently deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group. With USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) as the flagship, deployed strike group units include staffs, ships and aircraft of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 8, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28 and Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1; as well as Sachsen-class German Frigate FGS Hessen (F221).

U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.

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