Source: United States Navy
Vice Adm. Thomas Ishee, commander, U.S. Sixth Fleet, and the ship’s crew visited Toulon’s war memorial to participate in a wreath laying ceremony commemorating Armistice Day. The ceremony honored the legacy and sacrifices of allied forces in World War I and II.
Armistice Day also coincides with the American holiday, Veteran’s Day.
“Our activities this month with the French navy will provide a key opportunity to interoperate with one of our oldest allies,” said Cmdr. John Mastriani, Roosevelt’s commanding officer. “Beginning our operations with a celebration of Armistice and Veteran’s Day in Toulon is particularly meaningful to the Roosevelt team.”
This liberty port visit also gave Roosevelt Sailors a chance to experience the sights and culture of France.
“I feel like this is an amazing opportunity for the crew to experience France and its beautiful culture,” said Yeoman 2nd Class Renato Tanamachi. “This is my first time visiting this part of the world, and I’m looking forward to making great memories.”
Prior to this port visit, Roosevelt conducted a port visit in Copenhagen, Denmark, after completing operations in the Baltic Sea.
Roosevelt, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, began its fourth Forward Deployed Naval Forces-Europe (FDNF-E) patrol Sept. 27.
For over 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has forged strategic relationships with allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability.
Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations.