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Lassen Arrives in Korea for Proliferation Security Initiative

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS101014-15
10/14/2010

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Cynthia Griggs, Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs

BUSAN, Republic of Korea (NNS) -- USS Lassen (DDG 82) arrived in Busan Oct. 11 where the crew will commence International Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) Eastern Endeavor 2010 hosted by the Republic of Korea.

PSI is an international voluntary activity focused on stopping the trafficking of weapons of mass destruction (WMD).

"This exercise is an important step for advancing international efforts to deter proliferation of WMD," said Cmdr. H. B. Le, USS Lassen commanding officer. "We are looking forward to the unique opportunity to operate with three of our allies in the region to improve our interoperability, share tactics, and build upon already strong relationships."

Eastern Endeavor aims to halt illicit WMD proliferation by promoting proactive information sharing and enabling the development of capabilities and authorities that improve coordinated action between like-minded nations.

The events during the exercise include sea boarding drills, a simulated interdiction scenario ashore and subject matter expert exchanges that involve a number of interagency participants from several nations who plan to discuss interdiction-related issues, and explore government decision making processes.

The ships participating with Lassen in the exercise are ROKS Yi Sun Shin (DDH 975), ROKS Dae Jo Young (DDH 977) and ROKS Birobong (LST 682) from the Republic of Korea navy; an Australian navy P-3C Orion; and JS Asayuki (DD 127) and JS Isoyuki (DD 132) from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.

Since PSI exercises began in September 2003, 70 endorsing nations have participated in more than 40 PSI exercises. This is Lassen's first time participating.

While in port, volunteers from Lassen's crew will also participate in a community service project to help with the upkeep of the Blue Bird Senior Citizens Health Center. The home was founded in 1955 and was originally intended as shelter for orphans of the Korean War.

"It is a wonderful feeling being able to provide a necessary service to those in need," said Operations Specialist 1st Class Joshua L. Eddy, USS Lassen community service coordinator. "It gives us the rare experience to share in the local culture not normally open to visitors."

USS Lassen is assigned to Destroyer Squadron 15 and is forward-deployed to Yokosuka, Japan.