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Deputy Chief of Staff of Mexican Navy Visits Kearsarge

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080516-24
Release Date: 5/16/2008 4:39:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Emmitt Hawks, USS Kearsarge Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- Mexican Rear Adm. Roberto Gomez, Mexican Navy Deputy Chief of Staff visited the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) May 7, to discuss the ship's recent humanitarian relief efforts and capabilities.

The visit was part of a larger, official visit with Commander, Fleet Forces Command.

"An orientation and tour of the ship is a great opportunity to familiarize coalition partners with the capabilities aboard Kearsarge," said Cmdr. Andrew Thaeler, assistant C5I officer. "As we participate in joint humanitarian operations, it is important for these partners to understand our role as a flexible asset."

The group was greeted by Capt. James Gregorski, commanding officer of Kearsarge, who held an office call to familiarize Gomez and his group with the ship's past humanitarian operations and discuss the benefits of cooperation between countries in future joint operations such as Continuing Promise (CP). CP is a humanitarian mission to improve living conditions for people living in South America.

"Kearsarge is a proven asset in humanitarian operations," said Gregorski. "The ship can provide food, water, and medical aid to countries in need. Kearsarge Sailors most recently supported Operation Hand Clasp in Djibouti, Africa and provided relief for the people of Bangladesh."

During the visit, Gomez and two other Mexican Navy delegates toured the ship's well deck, upper vehicle stowage, medical and dental facilities, bridge and flight deck. They received detailed briefs in each space, with question and answer opportunities.

"It was a great opportunity to tour the Kearsarge," said Gomez, translated through an interpreter. "The ship has many capabilities that are important to the success of a humanitarian mission and we look forward to working with the U.S. in future operations."

For more news from USS Kearsarge, visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd3/.