STOUT continues to strengthen maritime ties with nations in the Black Sea, this time in Romania. After a short underway to transit across the Black Sea, we pulled into Constanta, Romania. Constanta has much to offer and I am sure everyone will enjoy exploring the city. The architecture is beautiful and the weather is perfect.
While inport Constanta we will conduct Medical, Security Force and Damage Control training with the Romanian Navy. We will also participate in another community relations project, which is sure to be a rewarding experience for the crew.
Shortly after pulling in, I had the opportunity to meet with RADM Aurel Popa, Flotilla Commander, Romanian Navy to discuss the friendly relations between our Naval Forces. During our visit, we discussed the challenges today’s Navies face. The challenges we confront in the U.S. Navy are very similar to those faced by Romania. We also discussed the rewards of training together with Romanians and U.S. Forces side by side. In all international training event I have been involved in every participant comes away with an increased understanding of those they trained with. I am sure this will be true for the the training we conduct in Constanta.
In the evening I had a nice meal by the Black Sea beach in the company of a few shipmates. A great way to wrap up a busy day
