PACIFIC OCEAN - The guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91) is scheduled to participate in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) International Fleet Review in Pattaya Bay, Thailand, Nov. 18-20.
The Royal Thai Navy is hosting the gathering, designed to further relations, cooperation, and interoperability between international navies.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of ASEAN. To celebrate, more than 20 ships from ASEAN and other countries will participate in the International Fleet Review, conference, and various receptions. Pinckney Sailors are also scheduled to participate in the opening ceremony and international parade at Pattaya Beach.
“The International Fleet Review will foster strong partnerships that help to ensure peace and prosperity in the Asia Pacific region,” said Cmdr. Frank Walter, commanding officer of Pinckney. “We are proud to represent the United States in that endeavor, and we are looking forward to our time ashore to experience the rich culture of Thailand.”
Pinckney Sailors are also scheduled to participate in a volunteer activity at the Child Protection and Development Center in Banglamung, Thailand. Activities will include sports and games with approximately 50 children.
ASEAN is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising 10 Southeast Asian states that promotes Pan-Asianism and intergovernmental cooperation and facilitates economic, political, military, educational, and cultural integration amongst its members and Asian states.
Pinckney is a part of the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group on a regularly scheduled deployment to the 7th Fleet area of operations.