The US 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), made a historic port visit to Palau this week, to promote closer ties and exchanges between the two countries and between the service members and the local community.
The ship carries the Commander of the U.S. Seventh Fleet, Vice Admiral Fred W. Kacher. This fleet is the “largest forward-deployed U.S. Fleet,” covering an area from the Western Pacific to the Indian Ocean.
Last night, a lively reception was held, with local dignitaries and officials joining the officers and crew of the USS Blue Ridge. Vice Admiral Kacher and U.S. Ambassador to Palau Joel Ehrendreich offered welcoming remarks, noting the presence of the USS Blue Ridge, the US 7th Fleet flagship, as a testament to the close relationship between the United States and Palau.
Since its arrival on Saturday, August 10th, its band has held a rock concert at the night market, a softball tournament on Sunday at Airai Baseball Field, and a Wind Ensemble Concert at Bethlehem Park. Today, August 13th, it will hold ship tours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.