The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61) departed Naval Station Norfolk Oct. 16, for a surge deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation.

Monterey is deploying to support maritime security operations and to increase theater security cooperation and forward naval presence.

The guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61), a component of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10, returned to Naval Station Norfolk following a 7 1/2 month long deployment to 5th and 6th Fleet area of operations Jan. 19. She is part of the Navy's Optimized Fleet Response Plan.

Monterey will ensure a continuous ballistic missile defense presence and uninterrupted support for potential tasking.

"I am inspired and motivated by the crew of USS Monterey. I could not be more proud and honored to serve with this crew," said Capt. Dave Stoner, Monterey's commanding officer. "The effort and skills demonstrated over the last two months is a testament to the strength and abilities of this crew. These Sailors have epitomized this ship's motto, 'Rough in Battle, Ready in Peace'."

The ship was commissioned June. 16, 1990, and is named after the decisive victory against the Mexican forces at Monterrey, Mexico, during the Mexican-American War. This was the first major urban engagement in U.S. military history. American forces were led by future President Zachary Taylor. It was the first battle for future General and President Ulysses S. Grant.

For more information on USS Monterey visit the ship's Facebook, www.facebook.com/cg61

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For more news from Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/.