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USS Monterey Hosts Reception in Aruba

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060417-08
Release Date: 4/17/2006 3:40:00 PM

By Journalist 2nd Class (SW) Katherine Favell, USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs

USS MONTEREY, Aruba (NNS) -- USS Monterey’s (CG 61) first port visit of the “Partnership of America’s” deployment began April 12, and marked the end of a successful first week at sea.

The crew spent their first night in Aruba hosting a reception aboard for more than 40 local distinguished visitors as a gesture of good will and gratitude for their hospitality in welcoming the crew to the island.

“It is an honor and a privilege for us to visit the beautiful island of Aruba,” said Monterey’s Commanding Officer, Capt. Robert Oldani. “We are grateful that so many of you would join us this evening.”

Members of Monterey’s crew were aboard to answer guests’ questions regarding life on a naval vessel.

“I want to thank the entire crew for helping make this a successful event,” said Oldani, “particularly our culinary specialists who have put together this fantastic reception.”

The event lasted two hours and was concluded by a presentation of gifts from Oldani to the Aruban Prime Minister, Nelson Oduber, and the U.S. Consul General to Aruba, Robert Sorenson. Oldani named them honorary crew members and presented them with signed pictures of the ship, a plaque with the ship’s crest and an Monterey ball cap. Augustin Vrolijk, director of foreign affairs, accepted the items on behalf of the prime minister.

“This has been a fantastic evening. I give my thanks to the crew for holding this magnificent reception,” Sorenson said. “I think you’ll have a terrific stay in Aruba, and I know everyone in Aruba is excited about having Monterey here.”

Monterey crew members also had the opportunity to interact with members of the local Royal Dutch Navy. Oldani welcomed aboard Lt. Col. Erik von Eerenberg, Dutch military representative and commanding officer of the Dutch Marine Training Command in Aruba, by presenting him with a Monterey ballcap and plaque.

“It’s my pleasure to welcome aboard our military brethren,” said Oldani. "'Partnership of the Americas' is a great opportunity to team up with the Dutch and other nationalities for training, cultural exchange and fellowship.”

'Partnership of the Americas' is a maritime training and readiness deployment of U.S. naval forces with countries from the Caribbean and Latin America, in support of U.S Southern Command objectives for enhanced maritime security. Monterey deployed April 4 as part of George Washington Carrier Strike Group and expects to return to her homeport in Norfolk, Va., later this spring.