The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group flagship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) departed Valencia, Spain, after a scheduled four-day port visit, April 13-17.

The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit team is comprised of the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), the amphibious dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51), the amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), and embarked Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionay Unit, departed the U.S. on October 6, 2015.

The port visit enhanced U.S.-Spain relations as the two nations work together for a stable, secure and prosperous Europe.

Quote:
"The Kearsarge and Marine Expeditionary Unit team had a wonderful port visit in Valencia and appreciate the people of this great city for giving us such a warm welcome. The reception held on our flight deck was a great way to strengthen partnership with our Spanish counterparts as we continue to work together to promote peace and stability in Europe and the world."

- Capt. Larry Getz, commanding officer, USS Kearsarge

Quick Facts:
While in port, USS Kearsarge hosted a dinner reception on the flight deck aboard the ship for approximately 120 Spanish distinguished visitors and 100 crew members.

While in port, Sailors and Marines participated in several community relation events such as a visit to the Polytechnic University of Valencia to interact with students and the faculty, as well as participated in a 5K Walk/Run for Autism Awareness.

Sailors and Marines participated in friendly competition sporting events against local Spanish athletic teams while in port.

The Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group entered the U.S. 6th Fleet of area of operations on April 5, and is conducting naval operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe.

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 http://www.kearsarge.navy.mil

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