USS Sampson (DDG 102)

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'Families and Friends of USS Sampson,

At the request of the Government of New Zealand, USS Sampson and her crew are heading to contribute to the ongoing recovery efforts occurring on New Zealand's South Island after the devastating earthquake that occurred Nov. 14.

While the ship was originally scheduled to enter Auckland Harbour to participate in the 75th anniversary commemoration ceremony hosted by the Royal New Zealand Navy, we now join ships from New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Japan, and Singapore to offer assistance.

Our prayers go out to the families in New Zealand who have lost loved ones, and for those who were affected by the earthquake - we stand with you. Know that this crew is energized and heading in your direction immediately to dutifully offer assistance if asked.

While we do not yet know how long we will remain in the area to assist or in what capacity we will help, we are fully prepared and eager to aid those in need.

Days like today humble me as the commanding officer of such a capable, enthusiastic, and resilient crew. When the Government of New Zealand asked for help, the crew responded selflessly, wanting only to know how we could help and how quickly we could respond.

My sincere thanks to the families and friends of Sailors assigned to Sampson. Your unwavering support allows us to remain focused on this worthy mission.

Sincerely,

Tim LaBenz

Commanding Officer, USS Sampson (DDG 102)'

'Another BDOC graduation in the books, welcome to the Wardroom!'

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USS Sampson (DDG 102) shared Secretary of the Navy's video.

November 22 at 1:13am

Posted by Secretary of the Navy

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Secretary of the Navy

November 19 at 10:43pm

#SECNAV and U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand Mark Gilbert were aboard USS Sampson (DDG 102) Nov. 20 to thank the crew for their support of New Zealand forces in r...endering assistance to residents affected by the recent earthquake in the rural areas of Kaikoura. Sampson, originally scheduled to pull into Auckland's Waitemata Harbour, diverted course at the request of the New Zealand government to render assistance to those affected by the earthquake on the South Island. The ship joined an international task group comprised of ships from New Zealand, Australia, and Canada. #PartnershipsMatter cc: US Embassy New Zealand, Royal New Zealand Navy

USS Sampson (DDG 102) shared U.S. Navy's video.

November 22 at 1:12am

USS Sampson Wellington, New Zealand Port Entry

Posted by U.S. Navy

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U.S. Navy

November 20 at 6:36pm

Watch as USS Sampson (DDG 102) became the first #USNavy ship to visit New Zealand in more than 30 years.

DDG-102 entered Wellington Harbour, Nov. 20, in format...ion with ships from Royal New Zealand Navy, Royal Australian Navy and Canada after participating in earthquake relief efforts in Kaikoura, New Zealand.

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