The Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) departed Toulon, France Sept. 19, 2016 to continue operations in the 6th Fleet area of operations.

While in Toulon, Ross conducted the 2016 chief's pinning ceremony, held the cycle 232 E-4 advancement exam, conducted a community relations project with a local church.

Quote:

"Our visit in Toulon exceeded our expectations. The French Navy and community were very welcoming. Our Sailors greatly enjoyed exploring the diverse and rich history of the city. We look forward to operating with our allies in the Mediterranean in the days to follow, demonstrating our mutual commitment to stability and security throughout the European region."
-Cmdr. Bryan S. Gallo, Executive Officer USS Ross (DDG 71)

Quick Facts:

Toulon was Ross's fifth port visit since getting underway in mid-July.

Ross is currently working with allies and regional partners to help develop and improve our maritime forces, maintain regional security and work toward mutual goals in order to advance security and stability in Europe.

USS Ross, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe. The ship deployed from Naval Station Rota July 14, 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.

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/.