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Mount Whitney Sailors Build Relations with French Counterparts

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS100326-10
Release Date: 3/26/2010 3:00:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Sylvia Nealy, USS Mount Whitney Public Affairs

TOULON, France (NNS) -- French Navy Sailors from FS Dupleix (D 641) hosted a basketball competition for U.S. Navy Sailors from USS Mount Whitney (LCC/JCC 20) during a four-day port visit March 15.

French and U.S. Navy Sailors gathered at the French Naval Station Gymnasium and displayed their talent during a four period basketball game.

"This event was definitely a morale booster. This is something we love to do, all day every day; just say the word basketball and we are there," said Information Systems Technician 3rd Class Adrianne Gates.

Capt. Bernald Velly, commanding officer of Dupleix was stationed aboard the Mount Whitney more than five years ago with Commander 2nd Fleet, Striking Force North Atlantic Treaty Organization when the ship was homeported in Norfolk, Va. Velley arranged this game to help Sailors build lasting friendships and relations.

"This was a great opportunity for my Sailors to play against the U.S. Navy Sailors. Given the fact, I have a two year history aboard this ship and the sport of basketball is a common American sport. I wanted to arrange this gathering, and I am glad everyone had fun and showed enthusiasm during the game," said Velly.

"Using sports is the best way to build a partnership and friendship with other countries because of the language barrier," said Lt. Alexandre Paulus, second rank officer aboard Dupleix.

Mount Whitney is on its scheduled port calls in the Mediterranean Region. Mount Whitney is the 6th Fleet flagship. The ship is homeported in Gaeta, Italy and operates with a hybrid crew of U.S. Sailors and Military Sealift Command, civilian mariners.