Commander, Carrier Strike Group 2 (CCSG-2) Rear Adm. Kenneth Whitesell visited French frigate FS Chevalier Paul (D621), July 14.

The visit, held on Bastille Day, promoted interoperability and U.S.-French commitment to stability in the Europe and Africa regions during Operation Inherent Resolve.

"Our French allies have shown warfighting credibility and commitment in our fight against ISIS," said Whitesell. "They are an important member of our team and getting to meet their crew and see first-hand the good work they do was an invaluable experience."

While aboard the ship, Whitesell toured workspaces, reviewed the ships capabilities, met with Sailors, and viewed a Bastille Day parade broadcast with the ship's commanding officer, Capt. Hugues Laine.

"Bastille Day is about freedom and presented a perfect backdrop for this visit as we and our allies work to promote freedom and prosperity in the region," said Whitesell. "The United States and France have a long history as champions of freedom. Today is the 100th anniversary of America joining WWI on French soil, and we marched alongside our friends in the Bastille Day parade along the Champs-Elysees, reviewed by Presidents Trump and Macron. Today we celebrate both our history of independence and our commitment to a global future of freedom."

The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

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