SINGAPORE - The amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52), with the embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), arrived in Singapore, Jan. 2.

Pearl Harbor’s visit to Singapore will not only allow the ship to conduct routine maintenance but it will give Sailors and Marines the opportunity to enjoy the rich culture of the country after working hours.

"Contributing to regional stability and security is a world mission that the United States cannot do on its own,” said Cmdr. Kevin Dean, Pearl Harbor’s executive officer. “As we integrate our capabilities with other countries, it is just as important to develop our relationships."

This will be Pearl Harbor’s first time visiting Singapore during the deployment, so many of the Sailors and Marines onboard have never had the opportunity to visit and experience the country.

Whether it be seeing the incredible architecture or trying out the local cuisine, there are many bucket list items the crew have for their time in the country.

“I am incredibly excited to be going to Singapore,” said Yeoman 3rd Class Raven King, assigned to the administrative department aboard Pearl Harbor. “I’ve always been interested in Asian culture and now I finally get the chance to experience Singapore’s.”

This will also be the ship’s first port visit since their return to the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Previous port visits in 7th Fleet during their deployment included Guam and Goa, India. Pearl Harbor, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group, with embarked 15th MEU and under the operational control of Amphibious Squadron 3, is operating in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region to strengthen partnerships and serve as a ready-response force for any type of contingency.