
USS Peleliu Enjoys Dream Liberty Port
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS080310-16
Release Date: 3/10/2008 2:16:00 PM
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Jason McKnight, USS Peleliu Public Affairs
PUERTO VALLARTA, Mexico (NNS) -- USS Peleliu (LHA 5), the "Iron Nickel," anchored off the coast of Puerto Vallarta, from Feb. 26-29, allowing almost 1,000 Sailors and Marines the opportunity to enjoy what many call "a dream liberty port."
"On behalf of Navy and Marine Corps recruiters across the world, welcome to Puerto Vallarta," said the ship's Commanding Officer, Capt. Ed Rhoades, when the ship dropped anchor within sight of the liberty port's white sand beaches and many other tourist attractions.
"I think the sights were nice," said Air Traffic Controller 2nd Class (AW/SW) Vincent Pang. "I liked the sand sculptures, the good deals on clothing, the attitude of the locals and the weather. Wearing shorts and a T-shirt in the winter is pretty cool."
Aircrew Survival Equipmentman 2nd Class (AW/SW) Benjamin Steinkamp said the most memorable part of his visit included a tour where he descended on a zip line through a jungle canopy.
"The food was also fantastic and the people are very friendly," added Steinkamp.
Electronics Technician 3rd Class (SW/AW) Daana Stuber said the Outdoor Adventure tour Steinkamp mentioned also included rock climbing, rapelling down a waterfall, a boat ride and a mule ride.
"Best of all the tour guides were amazing and extremely professional," said Stuber. "I felt safe at all times and there was never a dull moment."
Stuber said Puerto Vallarta may be considered a dream port by so many because of its similarity to Hawaii, but more pocket friendly.
"Even after three days of enjoying beautiful weather and beaches, tours, nightlife, Mexican cuisine and hospitality, I had only spent about $300," she said. "Being able to have fun with friends while enjoying everything I experienced made Puerto Vallarta that much more memorable."
For more news from USS Peleliu, visit www.navy.mil/local/lha5/.
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