The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) departed Aksaz, Turkey, Nov. 2, during its third forward-deployed patrol during exercise Dogu Akdeniz.

Dogu Akdeniz is an exercise with the purpose of providing operational training for participating units in the areas of planning and conducting anti-surface warfare, anti-subsurface warfare, and basic seamanship, with the ultimate goal of improving interoperability and strengthening professional and personal relationships between the United States and Turkey.

Quote:

"This was an excellent opportunity for Donald Cook Sailors to stand alongside our Turkish allies to finalize planning for Exercise Dogu Akdeniz. Our hosts have been most gracious during our in-port visit. We are excited to participate in the events ahead and look forward to working at sea with our counterparts to promote peace and stability in this region."
-Cmdr. Timothy C. Moore, executive officer, USS Donald Cook (DDG 75)

Quick Facts:

* While in port, officers of both the Turkish Navy and U.S. Navy participated in a pre-sail conference, along with other operational meetings to ensure Exercise Dogu Akdeniz runs smoothly.
* Turkish and United States Sailors participated in sports days, Oct. 30-31.
* With combined training and theater security cooperation engagements with our allies and partners, Donald Cook will demonstrate that the U.S. shares a commitment to working with allies and partners.
* U.S. 6th Fleet, headquarters in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint 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/.