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International Partnerships Strengthened at Navy Receptions

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS120617-01
6/17/2012

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Patrick Gordon, Navy Operational Support Center Baltimore Public Affairs

BALTIMORE (NNS) -- Receptions for American and coalition military personnel and dignitaries were held, June 14, aboard the Danish navy ship HDMS Esbern Snare (L-17) and German navy ship FGS Hessen (F-221) during Navy Week Baltimore 2012.

Sailors and Marines from the United States, Denmark, Germany and other coalition militaries met for an exchange of goodwill and insight into each other's respective forces and capabilities.

"Our navies often go out to sea and fight alongside each other, but events and receptions like this one really strengthen that relationship and give a greater understanding of not only our navies, but of our cultures as well," said Danish navy Orlogskaptajn Jacob Lauridsen, weapons and electronics officer aboard Esbern Snare. "And it is that kind of exchange that makes us greater allies overall."

Some in attendance said the receptions had historical significance.

"As we meet here in Baltimore to participate in the War of 1812 celebration, meeting with these sailors from so many different nations is almost a replaying of history," said German navy Oberleutnant zur See Jan Bottcher, combat system doctrine officer aboard Hessen.

Bottcher explained that Americans have been fighting alongside the armies of friendly nations since the American Revolution, and receptions such as those aboard the Sebern Snare and Hessen honor that cooperation.

Others in attendance recognized the importance of their effect on future operations.

"I've been involved in diplomacy via the Navy for many years, and when you carry our flag, you carry the might, mission and diplomatic presence it represents as well," said U.S. Navy Adm. John Harvey, Jr., commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command. "Events like these receptions are very important in maintaining that diplomacy between nations, because you have to build trust, not demand it."

Over the course of the evening, personnel from militaries around the world met and built that trust between nations under the backdrop of Baltimore, entertained by the crews of the host ships. Dignitaries welcomed guests and spoke of the importance continued camaraderie between the friendly nations.

"In a globalized world, it is important to know who your friends are," said Peter Ammon, German ambassador to the United States.

Navy Week Baltimore is one of the signature events around the country commemorating the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the Star-Spangled Banner. The Navy week is part of Baltimore's Star Spangled Sailabration and commemorates the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the writing of, "The Star-Spangled Banner." The United States Navy and its partners will commemorate the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 from 2012 to 2015, honoring all who fought and continue to defend safe passage on the sea.