The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) departed Haakonsvern, Norway, after a five-day scheduled port visit, May 18, 2015.

Jason Dunham's presence in Norway reaffirmed to NATO allies that the U.S. Navy shares a commitment to strengthen ties, while working toward mutual goals of promoting peace and stability in the Baltic and North Sea region.

Quote:
"My crew and I benefited greatly from the chance to engage with our NATO allies during the conference we attended here in port. The opportunity to exchange ideas and learn more about the differences in how we operate is invaluable to our ability to come together and work effectively as a team."
-Cmdr. Darren Dugan, USS Jason Dunham commanding officer

Quick Facts:
* The U.S. Navy, on a normal and routine basis, operates ships in the North Sea in accordance with international law.
* Members of Jason Dunham's leadership attended a conference to discuss plans for an annually scheduled joint exercise with representatives from five other NATO allied navies.
* Tours of the ship were given to Norwegian military personnel.
* Strengthening alliances during the port visit to Norway demonstrates the shared commitment the U.S. has toward seeking opportunities to enhance interoperability with its allies and partners.
* Jason Dunham is currently operating in the North Sea, working with allies and regional partners to help develop and improve its maritime forces, maintain regional security, and work towards mutual goals in order to advance security and stability in Europe.
* Jason Dunham, homeported in Norfolk, 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 Norfolk, Jan. 27.
* 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 www.navy.mil/.