The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) hosted Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) representatives for a reception aboard the ship, May 8, 2017. The Ross crew welcomed more than 90 host-nation guests including IDF Brig. Gen. Hadi Zilberman, head of Planning Division, and Rear Adm. Ido Ben Moshe, head of Naval Operations. The Charge d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Tel Aviv, Ms. Leslie Tsou, was also in attendance. Ross is currently moored in Haifa for a scheduled port visit to enhance U.S.-Israel relations as the two nations work together for a stable, secure and prosperous region.

Quote:
"Our presence here is a demonstration of our partnership with Israel. Our crew understands the importance of our commitment to this region. This is our fifth multi-mission patrol to the Eastern Mediterranean - we've operated very closely with the Israeli Navy, a very capable and professional force and we look forward to continuing to work with you in this area of operations. I'd also like to thank the U.S. embassy in Israel for their fantastic support. This has been an outstanding opportunity for our crew to experience the culture of Israel. One of the reasons people join the U.S. Navy is to see the world, and our visit to Haifa has been seamless thanks to the hard work of the U.S. embassy staff."
- Cmdr. Bryan S. Gallo, commanding officer, USS Ross (DDG 71)

"We look forward to continuing the great collaboration we've had with your crew. We feel really secure that you are here in Haifa Port."
- Israeli Navy Rear Adm. Ido Ben Moshe, head of Naval Operations

Quick Facts:
* Strengthening partnerships during the port visit to Haifa demonstrates enduring relationships and our shared commitment to promoting safety and stability within the region, while seeking opportunities to enhance our interoperability.

* The San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde recently visited Israel in March 2017, and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook visited Israel in June 2016.

* 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 www.navy.mil/.