Pre-BALTOPS concert draws fans from 12 nations
KARLSKRONA, Sweden — A Swedish guitarist plays classic rock here June 6 for sailors from 12 nations during a harbor party before the initial phase of Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) exercise 2009. This is the 37th iteration of BALTOPS and is intended to improve interoperability with partner countries by conducting realistic training at sea with the 12 participating nations. (Department of Defense photo by Navy Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Christian T. Martinez)
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KARLSKRONA, Sweden — Hundreds of sailors from 12 nations participated in a harbor party here June 6 to encourage camaraderie before the initial phase of Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) Exercise 2009.
The celebration allowed sailors from all participating nations to get to know one another in order to forge stronger bonds that will continue throughout the exercise.
"It's great to meet everyone," stated Seaman Martin Mraczi, a German sailor stationed aboard FGS Nerz (P 6124). "It's nice to know the rest of these ships will be beside us in the Baltic."
The event focused on increasing the awareness of cultural diversity in each country's navy and gave every sailor the opportunity to share their personal experiences with one another.
Operations Specialist Seaman Recruit David Jaffe, an American sailor stationed aboard the USS Mount Whitney (LCC/JCC 20) said, "Being able to come together with all these nations gave me a better understanding of why we do what we do, because I realize that these guys are just like me, serving their countries all over the world."
The Swedish Navy provided entertainment for the party with their rock cover band, playing songs from the 70's, 80's and 90's.
Electric Engineer Seaman Tim Hoffmahn, a German sailor stationed aboard FGS Karlsruhe (F-212) said, "I am having a good time celebrating with the other countries. I had no idea everyone was so cool!"
The harbor festival was one of the last major social events for sailors aboard more than 40 ships about to get underway for BALTOPS.
BALTOPS is comprised of forces from 12 countries and is the largest multinational naval exercise this year in the Baltic Sea. Annually hosted by the United States Navy, the exercise aims to improve maritime security in the Baltic Sea through increased interoperability and cooperation among regional allies.
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