USS Simpson concludes visit to Casablanca

U.S. Naval Forces Europe, 6th Fleet Public Affairs

Courtesy Story

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Felicito Rustique
U.S. Naval Forces Europe

CASABLANCA, Morocco – The guided-missile frigate USS Simpson and senior staff members from U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa concluded a three-day port visit of training, band engagements, and senior staff talks in Casablanca, Feb. 2.

During the visit, Simpson conducted visit, board, search and seizure training with Royal Moroccan navy personnel and received a tour of the Royal Moroccan navy vessel Tarek Ben Zayid. Staff members from U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa met with senior leaders from the Royal Moroccan navy to strengthen maritime partnerships, while members from the Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe Band conducted two community service projects at a girls’ orphanage and boys’ center in the city.

Rear Adm. Kenneth “K.J.” Norton, deputy chief of staff for strategy, resources, and plans at U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, along with his staff and the crew of Simpson, hosted the U.S. ambassador to Morocco, Samuel Kaplan, his wife and his staff, and top commanders from the Royal Moroccan Navy and Army, honoring the relationship between Morocco and their U.S. partners.

Moroccan Col. Mohammed Amharouch of the Royal Moroccan army said he was happy to have the Simpson’s crew visit his country’s world famous city.

“It’s good to form bridges between our two nations,” said Amharouch. “More visits, like the Simpson’s, will help our navies and countries move together into the future with vision.”

Cmdr. Leonard Milliken, Simpson’s commanding officer, commented on the events and training the two countries completed during their time in Casablanca.

“Today was a great day,” said Milliken. “We had tours where we provided training aboard to members of the Royal Moroccan navy and some of our Sailors visited and boarded a Moroccan vessel as well. Our visit to Moroccohas been a success.”

Rear Adm. Norton also spoke to the guests by offering praise to the Simpson’s crew and stressing the importance of partnership between the U.S. and countries likeMorocco.

“I’d like to conclude [the evening] with this thought: maritime security allows for economic opportunity,” said Rear Adm. Norton. “And economic opportunity allows for prosperity, and I think that’s in all our best interest.”

Simpson, homeported out of Mayport, Fla., is currently conducting theater security cooperation and maritime security operations in the Naval Forces Africa area of responsibility.

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Date Taken:02.03.2012

Date Posted:02.03.2012 08:20

Location:CASABLANCA, MA