The amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) and the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) departed Hong Kong after completing a five-day port visit, June 10.

The visit served as the first port call for Essex, which departed San Diego May 11 for a regularly-scheduled deployment.

"Port visits are an important part of our mission as ambassadors," said Capt. Pete Mantz, Essex commanding officer. "The people of Hong Kong have always been gracious and hospitable hosts and I am very happy to have had the opportunity to visit and continue the good relationships that the Navy has helped foster over the years."

While in Hong Kong, the Sailors and Marines took advantage of a wide selection of activities, including Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) tours, community service programs and even meals hosted by local families.

"I visited temples and houses that are 500 years older than our country," said Religious Program Specialist 2nd Class Mac Confer. "The highlight of the visit, though, was definitely the Meals in the Home. I will not forget the family I met and their hospitality. They were great people, and I had fun having dinner with them."

In addition to the tours and community service programs the Sailors and Marines participated in, many found independent exploration to be the perfect form of relaxation after nearly a month at sea.

"This was my first visit to Hong Kong so I took advantage of the public transportation system and explored anywhere the train went," said Interior Communications Electrician 1st Class Jason Brown. "I really enjoyed the shopping and local food, and most of all just getting out among the locals and experiencing their lifestyle."

Essex is currently on a regularly-scheduled deployment with the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), which consists of Essex, USS Anchorage (LPD 23), USS Rushmore (LSD 47) and the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU).

The Essex ARG/MEU is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations.

For more news from USS Essex (LHD 2), visit www.navy.mil/.