Guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66) completed a scheduled port visit in Klaipeda, Lithuania, as part of the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (GHWBCSG) deployment, Feb. 10.

The visit aimed to enhance U.S.-Lithuanian relations. During the visit, the crew had the opportunity to engage with members of the Lithuanian navy and public.

While in Lithuania, Hue City hosted distinguished visitors from the Lithuanian navy, Embassy and Ministry of Defense during an on-board luncheon and tour.

During the visit, Hue City hosted 17 ship tours for the Lithuanian military, university students, and local residents. The Sailors of Hue City also had the opportunity to tour a Lithuanian warship.

Hue City Sailors visited local sites and participated in community relations projects at a local foster home and two local schools. There was also a basketball game between Hue City Sailors and Lithuanian sailors.

"The past few days spent in Lithuania were extremely beneficial in continuing relations with our NATO ally," said Capt. Dan Gillen, Hue City's commanding officer. "It is critical that we continue to participate in events with NATO navies in order to strengthen our working relationships and tactical procedures."

Two major training exercises included combined training with the Hue City's visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team and the Lithuanian boarding team, as well as combined training with both nations' naval surface fire support teams.

The U.S. Navy maintains a presence in the 6th Fleet area of operations to help preserve peace and security and to further their partnerships with friends and allies. This forward presence contributes to freedom of navigation and lawful use of the sea, as well as furthers operational training and enables an exchange of culture, skills, and tactical knowledge.

Hue City continues to conduct maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. Navy's 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation as part of the GHWBCSG.

GHWBCSG is comprised of the staff of CSG-2; aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77); the nine squadrons and staff of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8; Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 22 staff, guided-missile destroyers USS Laboon (DDG 58) and USS Truxtun (DDG 103), and Danish guided-missile frigate HDMS Peter Willemoes (F 362); and Mayport-based USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) and Hue City.

For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/.