USS Vella Gulf Departs Agadir
DECEMBER 4, 2017 AT 11:00 AM UTC
The port visit served to enhance U.S.-Morocco relations as the two nations work together to strengthen regional security and stability.
Upon arrival in Agadir, the officers and crew were welcomed by the Commander of 4th Naval Base Capitaine de Vaisseau Mohammed Jaouhar of the Royal Moroccan Navy, as well as Colonel-Major Mohammed Kafli of the Forces Armée Royales.
Vella Gulf hosted numerous military and civilian guests aboard for tours of the ship and hosted an official dinner with guests that included the U.S. Embassy Morocco Chargé d’Affaires, Stephanie Miley, the Moroccan Minister of Agriculture, His Excellency Aziz Akhannouch and the Wali of Souss-Massa Region, His Excellency Mr. Ahmed Hajji.
The crew participated in a friendly game of soccer with the Moroccan navy.
“I really enjoyed getting the chance to watch Vella Gulf Sailors play soccer with the Moroccan navy,“ said Seaman Dusti Glumm. “They were very welcoming when we arrived and the game was exciting too.”
The Sailors also had the chance to experience the local culture.
“Our crew really enjoyed their time in Agadir,” said Capt. Rob Thompson, commanding officer of Vella Gulf. “Experiencing the Moroccan culture and interacting with Moroccan sailors were a true highlight of our deployment.”
Vella Gulf, homeported in Norfolk, is conducting maritime operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests.
U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.