USS Donald Cook Departs Cherbourg, France

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS171025-01
Release Date: 10/25/2017 8:40:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Theron J. Godbold

CHERBOURG, France (NNS) -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) departed Cherbourg, France, after a scheduled port visit Oct. 22.

This was Donald Cook's fourth port visit during their sixth forward-deployed patrol. While in Cherbourg, Donald Cook held an officer call with French officials, conducted a community relations project and received supplies.

"We had a great port visit in Cherbourg," said Cmdr. Kelley Jones, executive officer of Donald Cook. "The Sailors of Donald Cook showed what a true ambassador looks like and helped to strengthen our relationship with France. The crew enjoyed the rich history of Normandy and surrounding areas, thus we look forward to the next time we are back in Cherbourg."

This was Donald Cook's first port visit after successfully completing exercise Formidable Shield 2017 where the ship's crew was successful in launching a Standard Missile 3, proving the U.S. Navy's capability of conducting ballistic missile defense in the region.

U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.

Naval Forces Europe will defend the U.S. and allies, deter aggression, and reaffirm the NATO alliance. It is imperative that we demonstrate vigilance and resilience while enabling enduring relationships.