JEJU-DO, Republic of Korea - The Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship USS Chief (MCM 14) arrived at the southern island of Jeju-do for a routine port visit and completion of planned training and certifications, Sept. 26.
Capt. Glen Leverette, the deputy commander of U.S. Naval Forces Korea, greeted the ship along with Rear Adm. Kim, Jung-Soo, the commander of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy's Maritime Task Force Flotilla 7, and more than 100 ROK sailors, welcome Chief to the southern island.
“The ROK Navy and Flotilla 7 leadership always provide a warm welcome and excellent support to our ships,” said Leverette, “The support Chief has received in planning for this visit is indicative of the strong partnership we maintain between our navies and reflects the strength of the alliance between our two countries.”
While in Jeju, Chief’s Sailors will have the opportunity to participate in various Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) activities including cultural tours highlighting unique sites on Jeju.
"I think I speak for our entire crew onboard Chief when I say that we look forward to experiencing the hospitality of the ROK Navy, Flotilla 7, and the Jeju community during this port visit,” said Lt. Cmdr. William Russell, Chief’s commanding officer.
Chief, which is part of Mine Countermeasures Squadron (MCMRON) 7, is forward-deployed to Sasebo, Japan, and on patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.
Chief and MCMRON 7 are part of Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force, headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa.