The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) arrived in Split, Croatia, for a scheduled port visit, Oct. 28.

The port visit serves to strengthen ties between the U.S. and Croatia, and improve relations as the two nations work together for a stable, secure and prosperous region.

Quotes:

"The U.S. shares a commitment with our NATO allies to promote peace and stability across the 6th Fleet area of operations. We conduct a host of activities and security cooperation initiatives with Croatia. Our visit here is the second ship visit this year and demonstrates our continued commitment to improving our combined interoperability and capabilities to respond to threats in the region."
- Cmdr. Blair Guy, commanding officer, USS Porter (DDG 78)

Quick Facts:

* This port visit will provide the crew of Porter with an opportunity to meet with the people of Split and to experience the rich history and culture of Croatia.
o Sailors will participate in various tours hosted by the ship's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) team, highlighting the cultural attractions of Croatia.

* Porter's visit, board, search and seizure team will host a Maritime Interdiction Operation Seminar aboard the ship for 15 Croatian Navy and Coast Guard members, to demonstrate tactics and techniques. This visit provides Sailors an opportunity to meet with naval counterparts in order to strengthen bonds for an enhanced partnership.

* Cmdr. Guy is expected to have office calls with the mayor of Split and the commander of the Croatian Navy Flotilla.

* Porter will also host Commander, 6th Fleet Vice Adm. James Foggo III during a DV reception.
* Porter is currently working with allies and regional partners to help develop and improve our maritime forces, maintain regional security, and work towards mutual goals in order to advance security and stability in Europe.
* USS Porter, 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, June 29.

* 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 http://www.navy.mil/.