The U.S. 6th Fleet command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) departed Theoule-sur-Mer, France, Aug. 17, following a scheduled port visit to participate in commemorative events honoring the liberation of southern France by Allied forces during World War II.

Such port visits serve not only to commemorate a combined heritage and the defeat of tyranny in Europe, but also to enhance U.S.-France relations as the two nations work together toward a stable, secure, and prosperous region.

Quote:

"USS Mount Whitney's engagement in Theoule-sur-Mer and the surrounding region provided an important opportunity to strengthen the bonds between the people of France and the United States. Recognizing the sacrifices of the French and American WWII veterans commemorated this week, we take inspiration to ensure that today we remain focused along with our allies and partners to ensure peace, prosperity, and freedom. Mount Whitney continues Forward, Engaged and Ready."
- Capt. Carlos A. Sardiello, commanding officer
USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20)

Quick Facts:
Mount Whitney participated in a remembrance ceremony at Rhone American Cemetery, hosted a reception aboard the ship, and participated in various other ceremonies around the area.

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/.