The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) departed Haifa, Israel, May 12, upon completing a scheduled port visit to enhance U.S.-Israel relations and mutually work for a stable, secure and prosperous region.

The ship's presence in the Mediterranean Sea is a demonstration of the U.S. Navy's continued commitment to collective security for regional partners.

While in port, Ross hosted a reception aboard the ship May 8, welcoming more than 90 host nation guests. Guests at the reception included the head of Israeli Naval Operations, the Charge d'Affaires from the U.S. Embassy Tel Aviv, and the head of the planning division for the Israeli Defense Force.

"Ross' successful visit to Haifa reaffirms our commitments to the regional partners here in Israel," said Cmdr. Bryan S. Gallo, commanding officer of Ross. "We are grateful to have so many distinguished visitors aboard our ship to meet and discuss our shared values and common goals."

Ross participated in two community relations projects while visiting Haifa. Sailors assisted the Ofek Nashi Women's Shelter with gardening and facility maintenance May 8. Sailors also visited the Haifa Zoo May 10, helping with habitat preservation, cleanup, and feeding within the exhibits.

"Ross visiting Haifa was a great opportunity to meet with our counterparts in Israel, engage in common security goals and celebrate our commonalities, our cultures, and our commitment to maintaining a safe and secure region," said Ross' Command Master Chief Richard James. "We are also very thankful for the hospitality presented to our Sailors, as Israel offered many great historical sites for us all to visit."

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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