Rear Adm. Jesse A Wilson, Jr., commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic, and Force Master Chief Jack R. Callison visited the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) Sept. 29.

The ship's presence in Spain is a demonstration of the U.S. Navy's continued commitment to strengthening our strategic partnerships in the European region.

Wilson had lunch with the wardroom before touring the ship and meeting Ross' crewmembers. Afterwards, Wilson met with both the Chief's Mess and the wardroom to discuss the challenges our Navy faces.

"It was an honor to host Rear Adm. Wilson and Force Master Chief Callison on board Ross, and a tremendous opportunity for me and my crew to share the opportunities and challenges of a forward-deployed naval forces Europe ship," said Cmdr. Brian Gallo, commanding officer of Ross.

Ross, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, has completed five patrols in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of regional allies and partners, and U.S. national security interests in Europe.

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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