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Fitzgerald Arrives in Otaru, Engages Community

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090206-01
Release Date: 2/6/2009 7:11:00 AM

By Lt. j.g George Laue, Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs

OTARU, Japan (NNS) -- The Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) arrived off the coast of Otaru, Japan Feb. 5 for a scheduled port visit.

During their visit, Fitzgeralds's crew of 300 Sailors will have a chance to meet the citizens of Otaru and experience the world-renowned Susukino Ice Festival held nearby in Odori Park of Japan's fifth largest city, Sapporo.

The crew will also participate in a series of community service projects, including snow shoveling, a sports day with the children of the Wako Gakuen School and a visit with Japan Maritime Self Defense Force counterparts at nearby Yoichi Naval Base.

Additionally, Fitzgerald's Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Richard Dromerhauser will attend the opening ceremonies for the ice festival and conduct office calls with local officials to further strengthen the strong ties between the U.S. and Japan.

"The officers and crew of Fitzgerald are excited to be here and look forward to strengthening our relationship with the people Japan while enjoying the beautiful city of Otaru and the surrounding areas," said
Dromerhauser. "We have many Sailors eager to participate in community service projects with local children.

"This is a wonderful opportunity to interact with the citizens of Otaru through social and sporting events while enjoying the local cuisine, sightseeing and shopping," said Dromerhauser. "We are eager to learn more about the historic and cultural attractions of Otaru and most importantly, meet new friends."

Fitzgerald is assigned to Destroyer Squadron 15 and patrols the 7th Fleet area of responsibility conducting routine operations. Operating in the Western Pacific and the Indian Ocean, the U.S. 7th Fleet is the largest of the forward-deployed U.S. fleets covering 48 million square miles, with approximately 60-70 ships, 200-300 aircraft, and 40,000 Sailors and Marines assigned at any time.

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