Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) arrived in Bar, Montenegro, Sept. 21, for a scheduled port visit.

The visit serves to enhance U.S.-Montenegro relations as the two nations work together for a stable, secure and prosperous European region.

The ship's presence in the Adriatic Sea is a demonstration of continued commitment to the collective security of the European region.

Quote:

"It is an honor for USS Porter to be the first U.S. ship to visit here since Montenegro joined the NATO alliance. Our crew looks forward to the relationships we expect to build here. These types of visits allow us to enhance ties with our partners and allow our crew to experience the rich history of Montenegro." - Cmdr. Craig Trent, executive officer, Porter

Quick Facts:

Porter is the first U.S. Navy ship visit to Montenegro since the country became a member of NATO in June.

A reception and VIP tour is scheduled aboard the ship for Margaret Uyehara, U.S. ambassador to Montenegro, Capt. Darko Vukovic, commander of the Montenegro navy, Zroan Srzentic, mayor of Bar, Montenegro, and Branka Nikezic, president of the local parliament.

Sailors plan to conduct bilateral training with the local fire department to demonstrate damage control operations aboard the ship. Additionally, Sailors plan to help paint and refurbish local schools and public service buildings during community relations events while in port.

Porter is on its fourth patrol in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of regional allies and partners, and U.S. national security interests in Europe.

Strengthening partnerships during the port visit to Bar builds enduring relationships and emphasizes the shared commitment to promoting safety and stability within the region, while seeking opportunities to enhance interoperability as NATO allies.

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

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