SANTA RITA, Guam -- USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) arrived in Guam for a regularly scheduled port visit, Feb. 12.

Lake Champlain is on a regularly scheduled Western Pacific deployment with the Carl Vinson Strike Group.

"The crew is very excited to have the opportunity to experience the wonderful sights, culture and hospitality of Guam," said Capt. Jennifer Ellinger, commanding officer of Lake Champlain. "This port visit will also give the crew a chance to relax after several weeks at sea."

While in Guam, Sailors will have an opportunity to participate in tours organized by the ship's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation program.

"For many Sailors, this will be their first port visit outside the continental United States," said Ellinger. "At the same time, I am also pleased that some Sailors will have a unique opportunity to visit with members of their extended family here in Guam."

Lake Champlain is a multi-mission platform operated by more than 350 crew members and capable of air warfare, undersea warfare, naval surface fire support, and surface warfare.

The cruiser is equipped with Tomahawk cruise missiles, providing an additional long range strike capability to the strike group, standard SM-2 surface-to-air missiles, two 5-inch dual purpose guns, and two MH-60R helicopters.

The strike group is operating in the Indo-Pacific region to conduct maritime security operations, promote freedom of the seas, and work with partners and allies to enhance regional security and stability.

The deployment marks the second time the strike group is operating throughout the Indo-Pacific region under U.S. 3rd Fleet's command and control as a Third Fleet Forward asset.