USS Hopper Experiences Culture of Malaysia
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS080104-03
Release Date: 1/4/2008 7:46:00 AM
By Ensign Katie E. Burkhart, Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs
PENANG, Malaysia (NNS) -- The Pearl Harbor-based Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Hopper (DDG 70) spent Christmas in port in Penang.
Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Jeffrey W. James, hosted a reception upon arrival for local officials and dignitaries.
Hopper's fantail was lit with Christmas decorations and was filled with the holiday spirit as guests from the local area came aboard to meet the crew.
"I really enjoyed talking with the mix of visitors," remarked Command Master Chief Earl Gray. "The interaction helped foster our relationship with the locals and allowed us to meet people to tell us what not to miss around the island during our visit."
During the port visit, Sailors were offered various opportunities to experience the local culture, relax and celebrate the Christmas holiday. Numerous community relations projects allowed Sailors the chance to make a difference for the less fortunate.
Morale Welfare and Recreation provided tours of the island, snorkeling excursions and golf tee times. Sailors' favorite destinations included the botanical gardens, numerous temples scattered around the island and the night markets.
The hospitable people of Malaysia made Sailors feel welcome while away from their families.
"This is a great liberty port," said Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Badyre Gilreath. "There was so much to see and the culture was an exotic blend of wonderful people."
USS Ingraham (FFG 61) and Hopper are deployed with the Tarawa Expeditionary Strike Group, currently operating in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Hopper left its homeport of Pearl Harbor on Nov. 12, 2007.
For more news from Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/c7f/.
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