The Navy’s newest amphibious assault ship, the San Diego-Based USS America, arrived in Pearl Harbor Thursday for the multinational Rim of the Pacific exercise.
This is the America’s first time participating in the world’s largest international maritime exercise, but according to Capt. Michael W. Baze, the warship’s commanding officer, the crew understands the importance of strengthening ties with Naval partners throughout the globe.
“America’s maiden voyage around South America during the summer of 2014 was an incredible opportunity to reinforce relationships with our brothers and sisters throughout the continent,” said Baze. “Now, during RIMPAC, we have the same opportunity, but with even more partner nations.”
“I know the Sailors and Marines serving aboard America look forward to meeting new friends from foreign navies and military services,” he added.
During the exercise the America will host members of the Royal New Zealand Navy and Marines from Marine Expeditionary Battalion Hawaii, and serve as the command and control platform for Amphibious Task Force CTF 176.
Twenty-six nations, 49 ships, six submarines, about 200 aircraft, and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California.
