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USS Momsen Trains With Kenyan Navy

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080512-21
Release Date: 5/12/2008 4:20:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nathan Schaeffer, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs

MOMBASA, Kenya (NNS) -- During a three-day port visit to Mombasa, USS Momsen (DDG 92) hosted damage control training with a group of ten Kenyan Sailors, May 8.

Momsen Sailors conducted hands-on demonstrations with the Kenyan Sailors, including hose-handling and pipe-patching techniques, and provided instruction in damage control methodology and firefighting.

"We're here to assist them and hope this training will strengthen the relationship between our two navies," said Lt. j.g. Toy Andrews, Damage Control Assistant Officer aboard Momsen. "They were excited to give our methods a try and were eager to get in there and handle the hose. They were very receptive to whatever instruction we provided them."

Andrews said the training was not only beneficial for the Kenyans, but also gave Momsen Sailors a new perspective into their own damage control training techniques.

"Our Sailors had a lot of fun working alongside the Kenyan Sailors," said Andrews. "They're really proud to demonstrate their knowledge and share their equipment."

Momsen departed Mombasa May 9, following the port visit, which allowed her crew to participate in community relations events and professional military exchanges that strengthened ties between the U.S and Kenya.

Ship visits like these are intended to show U.S. commitment to the region and symbolize the continued friendship and partnership between countries.

"This visit to Kenya allowed us to increase the cooperative engagement between our countries and navies," said Cmdr. Michael C. Sparks, Momsen's commanding officer. "This visit exemplifies our commitment to building trust and confidence among friends worldwide. Engagements like these demonstrate the importance of working with international partners to ensure global maritime security."

The visit marked the first port call to Kenya by a U.S. Navy ship since October 2007.

Momsen is currently underway as part of the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, which is on deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to support Maritime Security Operations.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusnc/.