Forward-deployed submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) completed a successful port visit to Colombo, Sri Lanka, Sept. 1.

The Frank Cable team consisting of more than 500 Sailors and civilian mariners is currently on deployment to provide vital flexibility to the fleet commanders, extending the range and impact of U.S. naval forces.

The ship was the third ship and first submarine tender to visit Sri Lanka this year in an effort to increase friendship with the people of Colombo and interoperability with the Sri Lanka navy. Frank Cable completed this by making a courtesy office call with the Sri Lanka navy and hosting 75 Sri Lanka navy personnel for ship tours and basic damage control training.

"Frank Cable completed, what I think, was a successful port call aimed at building friendship and goodwill between the U.S. Navy and the people of Sri Lanka," said Capt. Drew St. John, commanding officer of Frank Cable. "The time spent hosting the Sri Lankan navy personnel on board for a tour and damage control demonstrations highlighted the growing relationship between our two navies. Our Sailors and civilian mariners were true ambassadors throughout the visit and each looks forward to the next opportunity to visit this welcoming land."

St. John went on to say, "Frank Cable still has a mission to do, being flexible, adaptable and extending the range and impact so U.S. naval forces can be a persistent force in the region."

Sailors also volunteered for two community relations projects and playing sports with Sri Lankan sailors, all helping foster a better understanding between the U.S. and the people of Sri Lanka.

Sailors were also able to rest and relax while enjoying the local culture. Frank Cable's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation department offered various tours ranging from a Tuk Tuk City Safari and a visit to the Sigiriya Rock fortress, to visiting an elephant orphanage.

Frank Cable is one of two forward-deployed submarine tenders and is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to conduct maintenance and support deployed U.S. naval force submarines and surface vessels in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

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For more news from USS Frank Cable (AS 40), visit http://www.navy.mil/, http://www.csp.navy.mil/frankcable/ or http://www.facebook.com/FrankCableAS40/.