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San Antonio Hosts Her First Reception Overseas

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS080923-23
Release Date: 9/23/2008 4:24:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) Brian Goodwin, Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group Public Affairs

MARMARIS, Turkey (NNS) -- The amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) hosted a reception for distinguished guests during a scheduled port visit in Marmaris, Turkey Sept. 20.

The visitors from Marmaris included Turkish military and government representatives, and the U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, Ross Wilson.

"We are very honored to have San Antonio's Sailors visit Marmaris for a port visit," said Wilson. "It was wonderful to celebrate this occasion aboard a brand new Navy ship on her first deployment with these fine men and women. I'm glad to know that Marmaris, Turkey has given these Sailors a chance to get a little rest and relaxation."

This was San Antonio's first overseas reception and the crew wanted to showcase the ship at her finest.

"I'm extremely proud of my Sailors for getting this ship prepared for her maiden deployment," said Cmdr. Kurt Kastner, San Antonio's commanding officer. "I viewed this reception as a wonderful opportunity to prove what a ready and capable warship San Antonio is."

Kastner also said the reception was a way to showcase the ship and strengthen bonds with allies overseas.

"One of the Navy's missions in the 6th Fleet area of operations is to build regional partnerships while in support of maritime security operations," continued Kastner.

San Antonio's Sailors and Marines enjoyed the reception and welcomed the chance to interact with the local distinguished visitors.

"This is one of those rare events that you read and hear about," said Yeoman 2nd Class Lucien Gauthier.
"This event was awesome."

San Antonio is deployed as part of the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG), which also consists of the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7); the dock-landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50); the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72); the guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61); all homeported at Norfolk; the guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), homeported at Mayport, Fla.; and the fast attack submarine USS Hartford (SSN 768), homeported at Groton, Conn.

For more news from Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group, visit www.navy.mil/local/iwoesg/.