Military

Blue Ridge Arrives in Singapore

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070227-02
Release Date: 2/27/2007 8:28:00 AM

By USS Blue Ridge Public Affairs

SINGAPORE (NNS) -- USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) and the embarked U.S. 7th Fleet staff arrived in Singapore Feb. 23 for a scheduled port visit.

The 7th Fleet flagship’s approximately 1,000 crew members and embarked staff will have the opportunity to enjoy visiting one of the world’s most vibrant city-states, while fostering friendship and cultural relations.

“Singapore and the United States have a long history of working together in this region, and this port visit gives us the opportunity to build on that excellent relationship,” said Capt. Jeff Bartkoski, Blue Ridge commanding officer. “My crew and I are looking forward to some exciting sporting events, tourism, and sight-seeing as well as the rest and relaxation Singapore has to offer.”

“The Blue Ridge has been here several times in recent years,” Bartkoski added. “Our visits to Singapore have always been a shining example of the positive relationship that exists between the U.S. Navy and this great city.”

Blue Ridge serves under Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7/Task Force (CTF) 76, the Navy’s only forward-deployed amphibious force. Blue Ridge is the flagship for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with an operating detachment in Sasebo, Japan.