From U.S. Third Fleet Public Affairs
USS Spruance (DDG 111), part of of U.S. 3rd Fleet's Pacific Surface Action Group, arrives at Changi Naval Base for a port visit. (U.S. Navy/MC2 Joshua Fulton) >>
SINGAPORE - The guided-missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73), USS Momsen (DDG 92) and USS Spruance (DDG 111) arrived in Singapore July 2 for a port visit.
While in port, the crews will have the opportunity to experience the captivating culture and warm hospitality of Singapore through community service projects and Morale, Welfare and Recreation sponsored events.
Decatur, Momsen, Spruance and embarked “Devil Fish” and “Warbirds” detachments of Helicopter Strike Squadron (HSM) 49 are part of a Pacific Surface Action Group (PAC SAG), operating under Commander, Destroyer Squadron 31 (CDS 31).
“Our presence in the Western Pacific signifies our dedication to not just our naval relationships but our diplomatic ones as well,” said Capt. Charles Johnson, commander, Destroyer Squadron 31. “Singapore is a port visit the crews have been looking forward to for some time now and when given the chance to experience the rich culture and to interact with local citizens – we are very grateful for it.”
The U.S. Navy maintains a presence in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to help preserve peace and security and to further partnerships with friends and allies. The presence of the PAC SAG on this deployment contributes to freedom of navigation and lawful use of the sea while enhancing cooperation with partner nations to further operational training and exchanges of culture, skills and tactical knowledge.
<< USS Momsen (DDG 92) ties up to the pier at Changi Naval Base as the ship arrives for a port visit. (U.S. Navy/MC2 Joshua Fulton)
Under the operational control of U.S. 3rd Fleet, the PAC SAG is conducting routine patrols, maritime security operations and theater cooperation activities to enhance regional security and stability. The Decatur and Momsen have conducted multilateral exercises with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Republic of Korea Navy as well as U.S. Air Force and Marine Corps assets.
USS Spruance also began their portion of the deployment participating in the Oceania Maritime Security Initiative (OMSI). OMSI is a Secretary of Defense program leveraging Department of Defense assets transiting the region to increase the Coast Guard’s maritime domain awareness, ultimately supporting its maritime law enforcement operations in Oceania.
U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Pacific and provides the realistic, relevant training necessary for an effective global Navy.