USS Gonzalez (DDG 66) completed a scheduled port visit in Limassol, Cyprus, Sept. 29.
Cyprus is an important regional partner, and strengthening these partnerships during port calls builds enduring relationships. Gonzalez’s visit demonstrates a common commitment to ensuring maritime security and regional stability, which is shared across all regional Allies and partners.
“Each port visit is a great opportunity to exercise interoperability, experience a new culture and represent the United States and the US Navy abroad,” said Cmdr. Michael Schenk, commanding officer of Gonzalez. “The crew of USS Gonzalez thoroughly enjoyed the visit to Cyprus as a brief respite to our time at sea. The city of Limassol was a wonderful host, and we look forward to continuing our operations in the European Theater.”
During the port visit, Gonzalez Sailors had the chance to appreciate country’s rich cultural heritage, exploring the local community and engaging with the people of Cyprus.
The port visit highlighted the strong relationship between the United States and the Republic of Cyprus and provided an opportunity to strengthen cooperation between the two nations. Gonzalez’s visit displayed the U.S. Navy’s continued commitment to working alongside Allies and partners to promote maritime security and regional stability.
Homeported in Norfolk, Virginia, Gonzalez independently deployed in March to the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa area of operations in support of U.S., Allied and partner interests. Gonzalez is an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer capable of conducting anti-air, anti-submarine, and anti-surface warfare operations.
Commissioned on October 12, 1996, Gonzalez is named in honor of Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Alfredo Cantu Gonzalez.