USS George Washington (CVN 73) arrived in Lima, Peru, Oct. 3 for a port visit.

"My crew and I are very excited to be here," said Capt. Timothy Kuehhas, George Washington's commanding officer. "Visiting Lima is the opportunity of a lifetime and we look forward to seeing many famous and historic places during our time here."

Lima is the first of several South American ports the ship will be visiting. While in port, crewmembers will have an opportunity to tour, shop and enjoy liberty. Sailors will be able to interact with the Peruvians through community relations (COMREL) and community service (COMSERV) projects. These projects include performing maintenance on an elementary school, interacting with children and competing with local sporting teams.

During the port visit, Washington's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program will be offering a variety of tours and activities for the Sailors to enjoy. Scheduled events include tours through history-rich museums, including the Pachacamac ruins, the Real Felipe Fortress and important historical sites in the city as well as a visit to one of the new seven wonders of the world, Machu Picchu.

"I'm really excited for my first foreign port visit," said Quartermaster Seaman Joe Acevedo. "I want to see what Lima has to offer and eat as much of the local cuisine as possible."

Washington will be hosting a reception for close to 300 Peruvian and American guests following her arrival in Lima as well as tours for visitors embarking aboard the ship during the duration of the port visit.

"I am humbled by the hospitality of our hosts and am grateful for the opportunity to partake in COMSERV projects with the Peruvian navy," said Kuehhas. "I'm certain our visit will create precious memories for my crew that they will share with their families and friends for many years to come."

Washington is deployed as part of Southern Seas 2015 which seeks to enhance interoperability, increase regional stability and build and maintain relationships with countries throughout the region through joint, multinational and interagency exchanges and cooperation.

For more news from U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command & U.S. 4th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/.