• Military Menu                       

• Introduction
• Systems
• Facilities
• Agencies
• Industry
• Operations
• Countries
• Hot Documents
• News
• Reports
• Policy
• Budget
• Congress
• Links

• WMD
• Intelligence
• Homeland Security
• Space

USS Bonhomme Richard Visits Victoria, Canada

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060918-23
Release Date: 9/18/2006 8:21:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Jeffery Gabriel Jr., USS Bonhomme Richard Public Affairs

USS BONHOMME RICHARD, At Sea (NNS) -- After four days of operational testing on the Nanoose Bay range, USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) (BHR) Sailors took part in a three-day port visit to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada from Sept. 9-11.

During her first foreign port visit since her last deployment that ended in June 2005, more than 1,000 BHR Sailors and Marines had the opportunity to tour the capital city of British Columbia and visit a wide variety of tourist attractions, to include the Royal British Columbia Museum and Emily Carr’s house. Victoria boasted heritage buildings, colorful gardens, outdoor recreation and marine adventures for BHR’s crew.

Numerous tours and activities were available to the crew, thanks to the outstanding efforts of BHR’s Fun Boss (Morale, Welfare and Recreation Director), Anne Bolton.

“There were so many opportunities for our Sailors to take part in outdoor activities,” said Bolton, a Seattle native. “I coordinated fishing and whale watching trips, kayaking adventures, a golf tournament, and horseback riding. Victoria was an awesome place to visit.”

BHR Security Officer Ensign Marco Vides said he welcomed the opportunity to visit the Canadian port city and appreciated the support provided by Canadian officials.

“Upon arrival, I immediately recognized the tremendous support provided by the Canadian navy and knew that the citizens of Victoria would do everything in their power to ensure a safe, incident free visit,” said Vides, who is also BHR’s force protection officer.

“When I ventured into the city, the local citizens were very courteous,” Vides added. “They were extremely helpful, and willingly provided directions to great restaurants and shopping centers, making my stay that much more enjoyable.”

According to Bonhomme Richard Commanding Officer, Capt. Steve Greene, BHR Sailors and Marines represented America’s sea services well in Canada.

“For many of us, this was our first visit to British Columbia. Our Canadian hosts, both military and civilian, went out of their way to make sure we had an enjoyable time ashore in Victoria,” said Greene. “The crew did a terrific job of representing our Navy and our nation in Canada.”