Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa; Commander, Allied Joint Force Command Naples, Italy, Adm. James G. Foggo III and senior members of the Moroccan military visited USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), April 26.

"Morocco is a strategic partner and a pillar of stability in the North African region and throughout the Mediterranean," said Foggo. "Our formal diplomatic relations with Morocco began in 1787 when the U.S. ratified a treaty of peace and friendship between the two nations. This treaty is still in force and is the longest-running treaty in our existence. So it's a real privilege to have Harry S. Truman here representing the United States in concert with our Moroccan friends and allies."

The visit coincided with Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group's (HSTCSG) participation in Exercise Lightning Handshake, during which strike group ships and aircraft integrated with the Royal Moroccan Navy and Air Force. The exercise was an opportunity for U.S. and Moroccan maritime and aviation forces to work together, exchange information and refine tactics, techniques and procedures in order to promote maritime safety and security in the region.

"Throughout Exercise Lightning Handshake, as Truman has sailed alongside our Moroccan partners, we've seen firsthand their capabilities and professionalism, said Truman's Commanding Officer, Capt. Nicholas Dienna. "It was an honor to open our ship to Morocco and showcase the pride Truman Sailors have in our mission here in Sixth Fleet."

The visit provided members from the Moroccan military the opportunity to interact with Sailors and familiarize themselves with United States carrier operations.

"Being able to interact with a foreign military and kind of get to show them how we operate was pretty awesome," said Boastswains Mate 2nd Class Charles Davidson. "I really enjoyed the experience and I'm sure it's something I won't forget."

Truman is operating in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of responsibility as a part of a regularly scheduled deployment, supporting maritime security operations in international waters around the globe.

For more news from USS Harry S. Truman, visit http://www.navy.mil or www.navy.mil/local/cvn75/.