USS Ramage (DDG 61) – part of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 12, Gerald R. Ford CSG, arrived in Durrës, Albania for a regularly scheduled port visit July 20, 2023.

The port visit provides an opportunity to enhance the U.S.-Albanian partnership as the two nations work together for a stable, secure, and prosperous Europe. It also allow the Sailors of USS Ramage a chance to experience the culture and history of a key NATO Ally.

As a NATO member since 2009, Albania’s long-standing relationship with NATO, and its continued interoperability with NATO Allies, including the United States, has solidified the country’s position as a strategic partner in defense of the Adriatic Sea.

“I welcome the visit of the USS Ramage to Albania as another step forward in our strengthening defense partnership, as close partners and NATO Allies,” said Demian Smith, Chargé d’Affaires of U.S. Embassy Tirana.

“The spirit of Albania is very much our own, a proud nation which declared their independence from tyranny and broke free from communist dictatorship,” says Cmdr. Tim Yuhas, commanding officer of the USS Ramage. “Our relationship with Albania is built on a foundation of shared values, experiences, and vision. We all want nothing more than for people to live their lives in freedom. With this port visit, we hope to preserve this trust between our great nations.”

While in port, Ramage Sailors will have the opportunity to visit historical sites such as the Amphitheatre of Durrës, the largest amphitheater in the Balkans, as well as Durrës Castle, a fortified city built under Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influence.

“Growing up as the son of two experienced archaeologists, my parents sparked my interest in history,” says Gunner’s Mate Seaman Caleb Baker of Littleton, Colorado. “I’m excited to visit the Archaeological Museum of Durrës after its reconstruction.”