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MCPON Visits Lithuania

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060302-04
Release Date: 3/2/2006 8:57:00 AM

By Photographer's Mate (AW) 2nd Class Sarah Bir, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe/Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

KLAIPEDA, Lithuania (NNS) -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) (SS/AW) Terry Scott visited Lithuania for three days in early February for a meeting with top naval leaders and Sailors to exchange ideas.

The MCPON's visit was in support of Commander, Naval Forces Europe and Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet's initiative to support enduring partners through developing leaders.

"It is a historical moment for Lithuania to have the U.S. Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy visit our navy," said Lithuanian Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Stasys Laucys. "This is a great honor for us."

While in Lithuania from Feb. 7-10, Scott met sailors there and discussed Navy policies and programs while learning about their naval customs, strengths and priorities.

"They are very much like their U.S. counterparts. They know what they are doing is important and making a difference," he said.

During his brief visit to Lithuania, Scott also toured four ships for an up-close and personal glimpse of life on a Lithuanian vessel.

The Lithuanian navy was established July 4, 1992, in Klaipeda, and currently has a staff of 700 sailors. Some of their taskings include supporting national sovereignty in territorial seas, underwater and surface patrol, air surveillance, and protection of the coastal areas, as well search and rescue operations. They also regularly participate in NATO exercises.

Scott's visit to Lithuania led to greater understanding between the two NATO nations and their navies.

"I was really astounded by Scott's knowledge of all the Navy policies and his personal approach to people," said assistant to the Lithuanian navy commander, Senior Chief Yeoman (SW) Michailas Karpuzovas. "Tools such as the Five Vector Model will help us in enhancing our personnel advancement system and is one of the things we will take away for future use."

Scott returned to the United States Feb. 10.