Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook got underway from Klaipeda after a scheduled port visit, April 18.

Such port visits serve to enhance U.S.-Lithuanian relations as the two nations work together for a stable, secure and prosperous region.

Quote:
"The crew thoroughly enjoyed the port visit. It has been a great opportunity to build relations and interpretability with Lithuania. We hope we can visit this beautiful city again."

- Cmdr. Matthew Powel, executive officer, USS Donald Cook

Quick Facts:
Strengthening alliances during the port visit to Klaipeda demonstrates the shared commitment we have to promote safety and stability within the region, while seeking opportunities to enhance our interoperability with partners like Lithuania.

Press conferences were held with local media aboard Donald Cook.

Cmdr. Charles Hampton, commanding officer of USS Donald Cook, conducted office calls with the Vice Mayor of Klaipeda and the Lithuanian Chief of Naval Operations.

Donald Cook hosted a luncheon for distinguished visitors including the Mayor of Klaipeda.

Sailors were present for the Rysta Orphanage ribbon cutting of their new playground.

Sailors from the Donald Cook played against Lithuanian sailors in a basketball game.

Donald Cook is currently on a forward-deployed patrol, 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.

Donald Cook, 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, March 16.

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