SINGAPORE – U.S. 7th Fleet flagship, USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), arrived in Singapore for a port visit May 6, marking the ship’s first visit to the Lion City in more than three years.
The flagship’s visit underscores a strong navy partnership with the Republic of Singapore Navy based on regular U.S. Navy ship visits, professional exchanges and longstanding participation in exercises, such as CARAT, Pacific Griffin, SEACAT and RIMPAC. RSN also participates in combined operations, such as multi-national counter-piracy efforts in the Gulf of Aiden as part of Combined Task Force 151.
“Seventh Fleet and Blue Ridge Sailors always enjoy visiting the Lion City,” said Vice Adm. Phil Sawyer, commander U.S. 7th Fleet. “Our partnership with the Republic of Singapore Navy could not be stronger and we look forward to continuing port visits, exchanges and exercises as we have for decades.”
During this port visit, Blue Ridge Sailors will have the chance to take part in several community relations events, while members of the 7th Fleet band will hold public concerts. Sailors will also have opportunities to explore the city on guided tours.
“For us, port calls are important in more than one way. They double as rich tourist opportunities and a chance to continue to build and reinforce existing relationships in the area,” Blue Ridge Commanding Officer Capt. Eric Anduze said. “With so many Sailors on our crew visiting here for the first time, we are excited to work our Singaporean partners and experience the wonderful culture that exists here.”
U.S. 7th Fleet provides security alongside allies and partners throughout a free and open Indo-Pacific. As the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed fleet, 7th Fleet operates roughly 50-70 ships and submarines and 140 aircraft with approximately 20,000 Sailors.
As 7th Fleet’s flagship, Blue Ridge, provides a mobile command and control capability throughout the Indo-Pacific. Blue Ridge is commanded by Capt. Eric Anduze and serves under Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 7/Task Force 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force.
For more news from USS Blue Ridge, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/lcc19/.