By Lt.j.g. Tamsyn Thompson, USS Mississippi Public Affairs
USS Mississippi (SSN 782) arrives at the Republic of Korea Fleet base in Busan for a port visit. (U.S. Navy/MC3 Jermaine M. Ralliford) >>
BUSAN, Republic of Korea - Virginia-class fast attack submarine USS Mississippi (SSN 782) arrived in Busan for a routine visit as part of its maiden Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment, June 13.
With a crew of approximately 141 Sailors, Mississippi is conducting a multitude of missions while maintaining proficiency of the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.
"This port call to Busan is a great opportunity," said Cmdr. Eric Rozek, Mississippi's commanding officer. "The visit allows the crew to contact their loved ones back home following several weeks at sea. At the same time, my Sailors will also get the unique opportunity to experience the heritage, culture and history of Korea and continue to strengthen our relationship with one of our Western Pacific partners."
Mississippi's visit is essential to the strengthening and broadening of the U.S. and Republic of Korea bilateral relationship, while expanding on the existing strong naval bond. While in port, Sailors will volunteer some of their off-duty hours in support of a joint military-to-military community relations engagement, which includes recreational activities with children from a local orphanage and facility maintenance.
For many of the crew members, this is their first time traveling outside of the U.S.
"I'm extremely excited to visit Busan," said Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Adam E. Esaw, native of Sarasota, Florida. "I'm looking forward to immersing myself in the South Korean culture and experiencing the indigenous food and local market life."
Measuring more than 360-feet-long and displacing approximately 7,000 tons when submerged, Mississippi is the one of the most technologically advanced and stealthiest submarines in the world, and has the capabilities of supporting a multitude of missions. She adds tremendous capabilities from the undersea domain to provide the United States and allies and partners with anti-submarine, anti-surface, strike, naval special warfare involving special operations forces and mine warfare.