By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Charles Oki
SINGAPORE (NNS) — Arleigh Burke-class, guided-missile destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG 85) arrived in Singapore for a port visit May 16.
While in Singapore, McCampbell will be participating in the International Maritime Defense Exhibition (IMDEX) Asia 2011, a maritime defense trade show with more than a dozen navies in attendance.
"IMDEX Asia is more than just a trade show," said Cmdr. Steven DeMoss, McCampbell's commanding officer. "It provides the navies in attendance a chance to interact and build new partnerships or strengthen existing relations."
During the exhibition, McCampbell's visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team will also be conducting a VBSS demonstration and subject matter exchanges for foreign dignitaries, defense officials and foreign counterparts.
"With the rise in piracy over the years, VBSS has become an important part of all blue water navies," said Operations Specialist 1st Class (SW/AW) Andrew Steiner, a Hanford, Calif., native and VBSS team leading petty officer. "Our demonstration is meant to show that we are more than ready and capable in completing the task and to ensure we learn from our partners."
Sailors will also be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of a foreign country. McCampbell Sailors will get several opportunities to explore and experience the cultural melting pot that makes Singapore unique.
"Singapore is always a favorite for the Sailors when it comes to liberty," said Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Carlton Duncan. "It is a very diverse nation with many cultures coming together so this provides a very interesting liberty experience for the Sailors. Many of our Sailors have been here several times, and the country always welcomes us back with open arms."
With dozens of ships making port visits in Singapore each year, for some, this is their very first visit.
"This is going to be my very first port visit so I'm really excited," said Cryptologic Technician (Collection) Seaman Jeremy Moss, from Pekin, Ill. "I've heard a lot of great things about Singapore so I'm really looking forward to exploring the city, seeing some of the sights and experiencing the culture."
McCampbell is assigned to Destroyer Squadron 15 and is forward-deployed to Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan.
US Pacific Fleet
