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Ambassadors Visit "Prowlers of the Deep" in Bahrain

Navy Newsstand

Story Number: NNS030825-15

Release Date: 8/26/2003 4:03:00 AM

By Lt. Garrett D. Kasper, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, 5th Fleet Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- "We prowl the sea in defense of human freedom," is the motto of USS Memphis (SSN 691), and it's by no coincidence they're deployed to 5th Fleet in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

While in port Aug. 23, Memphis was visited by two members of the King of Bahrain's Shura Royal Advisory Council, four ambassadors, several prominent businessmen and a U.S. Embassy staff member. Germany, India, Japan and Russia were among the countries represented by their ambassadors to Bahrain.

"It is an historic event when we can display our submarine fleet's capabilities to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa's Shura Council members and to other distinguished diplomats," said Vice Adm. Timothy J. Keating, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, 5th Fleet. "Through their training and pride, our Sailors are committed to being in this region, operating such a versatile warship to assure undeniable freedom of the seas and lasting peace ashore."

"It's always a great opportunity for us to show off this warship to dignitaries," said Memphis' Executive Officer, Cmdr. Daniel G. Christofferson, of Belingham, Wash. "It's not very often we get this level of distinguished visitors, let alone from all five of these countries at once."

Commissioned in 1977, Memphis is the fourth-oldest submarine in the U.S. Navy's inventory, yet it boasts the most modern technological upgrades due to modernization programs. For Chief of the Boat Larry G. Greenough, displaying the hard work of the 165-member crew is something he is most proud of.

"Memphis works hard, and the crew is proud to show off their ship. We want the world to see it, and this visit was a tremendous opportunity for us and the Navy to do just that," Greenough said. "It's great to host these countries who are so strong in the submarine community, and it's important to show the world what the U.S. has to offer."

"It's been 22 years since Memphis sailed in 5th Fleet waters, and it's an honor to have them back prowling our seas in defense of human freedom. It's an even bigger honor to have our regional friends see not only how we do it, but who is doing it," Keating said.