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USS Monterey Departs US 6th Fleet Area of Operations
ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- Guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61) concluded its mission in the Mediterranean.
While in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations (AOO), Monterey conducted two port visits in Spain, the first to Palma de Mallorca and the second to Naval Station Rota, Spain. Monterey remained in the 6th Fleet AOO as part of the overall mission to the area.
Monterey celebrated the new year in Palma de Mallorca, Spain. During the port call, command leadership met with Spanish Central Government Representative for the Baleric Islands Delegada Maria Salom and Lt. Cdr. Jose Maria Marquez Montero, a representative of the Spanish Navy.
"It was great to be in Palma. Meetings like this strengthened the bonds between the U.S. and our NATO Allies," said Capt. Chris DeGregory, commanding officer of Monterey. "We share the same interests of maintaining safety and security of the world's oceans and sea lanes."
While in Palma de Mallorca, many Sailors were able to experience the culture of Spain and see the sites.
"I was impressed by the beauty of Palma and all it had to offer. I loved the rich history and classic beauty of the island," said Lt. j.g. Christina Valladares. "My favorite part was visiting the Catedral de Santa Maria."
Monterey arrived at Naval Station Rota for a brief visit before setting out again for home.
"The crew had a great time in 6th Fleet, but after a long seven months on deployment, we are all excited to get home and see our families," said Command Master Chief James Stedding.
Monterey, deployed as part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, is supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations. U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with joint, allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.
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For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/naveur/.
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