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Seventh Fleet command ship arrives in Hong Kong

7th Fleet

Release Date: 10/28/2003

Seventh Fleet public affairs

HONG KONG -- The U.S. Navy's Seventh Fleet command ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), and the embarked Commander, Seventh Fleet staff arrived here Oct. 28.

While in Hong Kong, the ship's nearly 1,000 crewmembers, Marines and embarked staff will enjoy some long-anticipated rest and recreation in this "gateway to China." They will also participate in community service projects, and enjoy recreational activities, sightsee and experience the culture and hospitality of Hong Kong.

Blue Ridge, an amphibious command and control ship, is the flagship of the U.S. Seventh Fleet. The ship supports a variety of missions by providing a robust communications suite to allow the Seventh Fleet commander, Vice Adm. Robert F. Willard, and his embarked staff, to provide guidance and direction to U.S. naval forces in the region.

The Seventh Fleet area of responsibility for U.S. Navy operations encompasses 52 million square miles of the Pacific and Indian oceans. On average, there are 50 ships, 200 aircraft and approximately 20,000 Sailors operating in the area. Seventh Fleet is commanded by Vice Adm. Robert F. Willard.

Forward deployed from Yokosuka, Japan, Blue Ridge is commanded by Capt. J. Stephen Maynard, and has a complement of nearly 1,000 crewmembers and embarked staff.