Japanese Navy Visits Blue Ridge for Holiday Exchange
By Mass Communications Specialist 3rd Class Brian A. Stone7th Fleet
YOKOSUKA, Japan - Officers from Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) ship JS Hatakaze (DD 171) and U.S. 7th Fleet command ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), exchanged holiday greetings during a traditional Japanese wreath exchange aboard Blue Ridge, Dec. 20.
The wreath presented to Blue Ridge, known as Kadomatsu, is intended to bring good luck and prosperity during the New Year and exemplified the appreciation JMSDF has for the continuous efforts of Blue Ridge Sailors in the communities of the 7th Fleet area of operations.
JMSDF officers were welcomed aboard by Blue Ridge’s Executive Officer Lt. Cmdr. Kevin Ralston, Command Master Chief David Unnone and Operations Officer Lt. Cmdr. Zachary McCarty. Ralston accepted the gift on behalf of Blue Ridge and presented JMSDF with a pair of holiday saplings. Following the exchange of gifts on the quarterdeck, JMSDF was welcomed into the ship’s wardroom.
Ralston commented on the continued opportunities between Blue Ridge and the JMSDF.
"Our sister-ship Hatakaze is manned with an exceptional crew. I enjoyed seeing them again and look forward to additional opportunities for professional and personal exchanges between
This article was originally published at: http://www.c7f.navy.mil/news/2011/12-December/032.htm
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