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McCain Chiefs Promote Friendship, Interoperability in Sasebo

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080225-04
Release Date: 2/25/2008 12:01:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Byron C. Linder, Fleet Public Affairs Center Det. Japan

SASEBO, Japan (NNS) -- Chief petty officers (CPOs) aboard the USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) promoted friendship with their Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) counterparts Feb. 20-21, in Sasebo for a scheduled port visit.

Four JMSDF command master chiefs (CMC) and four JGSDF sergeant majors from various Sasebo-based commands came aboard McCain on Feb. 20 for a tour of the ship.

McCain chiefs hosted the tour, which gave visitors a look at the pilot house, engineering spaces, combat information center and lunch in the CPO mess. The day concluded at a joint social at a local Sasebo restaurant, but professional engagements continued throughout the week.

On Feb. 21, 14 McCain chiefs toured an original World War II era Japanese command and control bunker with two JMSDF CMCs and two JMSDF master chiefs.

Following the tour, McCain chiefs visited the Sasebo regional district JMSDF headquarters and traveled up nearby Mount Yumihari to view the original gun batteries from World War II. The day ended with a visit to the Seikei Marina and Aquarium and lunch at the Sasebo Regional District JMSDF headquarters.

McCain's Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Martin K. King, said the events were designed to promote friendship and interoperability between the Japanese and United States services.

"The bottom line is the friendship between the CMC's and sergeant majors creates better interoperability among us," King said. "Their friendship is a lasting memory, I've known them for several years, and we always have a great time."

King added the friendship is a major factor in determining future joint-service operational success and maintaining the strong ties that already exist.

"The fact that they took the time on short notice to accommodate us goes a long way toward our relationship," King said.

For more news from Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/c7f/.