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| HMAS Stuart (Wiki Info - Image: Wiki Commons) |
LCDR Michelle Ryan (author)
A formal ceremony welcomed HMAS Stuart alongside in Yokosuka, Japan, on 10 October when the ship arrived to participate in the country's International Fleet Review.
A Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force contingent, led by Captain Kazijoto greeted the ship on arrival.
Marking the formal commencement of the Review Week from 11 October, a Colour Guard and platoon from Stuart marched through the streets of Yokosuka, along with Japanese , French and the United States Navies.
The ship was also in location to participate in Exercise NICHI GHOU TRIDENT.
Commanding Officer Stuart Commander Aaron Nye said that the visit from the Australian frigate was in part, reciprocal for the attendance of Japan's JDS Makinami at the Royal Australian Navy's own International Fleet Review in Sydney in 2013.
“It is great to be here to represent Australia for Japan's Fleet Review, as this visit continues to foster the close relationship our two navies enjoy," he said.
For many of the crew, the visit was their first to Japan.
Leading Seaman Maritime Logistics - Support Operations Alistair Harrison described the arrival in Japan as a “once in a lifetime visit”.
"This is particularly significant as I also participated in Sydney’s International Fleet Review in 2013, along with many of the crew," he said.
The formal Review took place on 18 October, and included over 46 warships from five nations. Stuart is conducting a North East Asian Deployment.