From Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Africa / Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs
PORT EST, Reunion (NNS) -- High speed vessel Swift (HSV 2) and USS Nicholas (FFG 47) arrived in Port Est for a three-day regularly scheduled port visit while operating in the Indian Ocean Feb. 16.
While in Port Est, the ships' crews will work with the French military. The stop will also allow both ships to pick up supplies and provide personnel with an opportunity for some liberty before they continue with their mission in support of Africa Partnership Station (APS) East.
"Our stop in Reunion will allow us to regroup for the remainder of our APS mission, which is an international initiative aimed at improving maritime safety and security in Africa," said Capt. James E. Tranoris, commodore of APS East. "The APS mission has already taken us to Djibouti, Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique. Following our stop in Reunion, we'll continue with visits to Mauritius, Seychelles, Comoros, and Kenya. Any opportunity to partner and conduct international exchanges is valuable to our Sailors and the U.S. Navy, which is why we are looking forward to the prospect for training with the French military here in Reunion."
Military-to-military exchanges are not the only interactions happening in Reunion this week. Members of the U.S. Naval Forces Europe Band "Top Brass" will hold a concert at the University of Reunion (Saint-Denis). The performance will feature traditional American jazz and New Orleans style brass band music.
"We are excited every time we get to play a show for a new group of people," said Musician 3rd Class Vincent Moody. "Each country we visit provides us a great opportunity to meet new people and to entertain them with our music."
The visit will also allow crew members from both ships a chance for some relaxation and liberty time to venture out and enjoy the island.
APS is an international initiative in support of Naval Forces Africa which aims to unite international partners to enhance maritime safety and security throughout the African continent. Swift and Nicholas, both homeported in Norfolk, are on regular scheduled deployments within the U.S. 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility.