From Commander, U.S. Third Fleet Public Affairs
PACIFIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The guided-missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73) and USS Momsen (DDG 92) are scheduled to arrive in Sasebo, Japan for a regularly scheduled port visit, Jun. 2-4.
Decatur and Momsen are deployed as part of a U.S. 3rd Fleet Pacific Surface Action Group (PAC SAG) under Commander, Destroyer Squadron 31 (CDS 31).
"Our relationship with the Japanese, and their maritime force, over the last 70 years has been one of the closest alliances we have maintained," said Capt. Charles Johnson, commander, Destroyer Squadron 31. "We are grateful for any opportunity to learn more about the Japanese culture and people."
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. Our forward presence contributes to freedom of navigation and lawful use of the sea, as well as furthers operational training and enables an exchange of culture, skills and tactical knowledge.
The guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111) and embarked "Devil Fish" and "Warbirds" detachments of Helicopter Strike Squadron (HSM) 49 are also part of the PAC SAG. Spruance is underway conducting Oceania Maritime Security Initiative (OMSI) operations. OMSI is a Department of Defense initiative, in conjunction with the U.S. Coast Guard, to provide enforcement against illegal fishing and poaching in economic exclusive zones.
Under the operational control of U.S. 3rd Fleet, the PAC SAG is scheduled to conduct routine patrols, maritime security operations and theater cooperation activities to enhance regional security and stability.
U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Pacific and provides the realistic, relevant training necessary for an effective global Navy.