KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia -- USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) arrived in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, for a regularly scheduled port visit, Feb. 21.

Wayne E. Meyer is on a regularly scheduled Western Pacific deployment with the Carl Vinson Strike Group.

"We are thankful to our hosts for this opportunity, as the U.S. Navy's relationship with the Royal Malaysian Navy continues to grow," said Cmdr. Jamie Hopkins, commanding officer of Wayne E. Meyer.

While in port Sailors will have an opportunity to see the sights and experience the culture of Kota Kinabalu.

"For the majority of our crew, this is the first visit to Kota Kinabalu, and my team is excited to enjoy some time ashore in a new port," said Hopkins.

The guided-missile destroyer is operated by more than 300 crew members and is based out of San Diego.

The ship is named after the late Rear Adm. Wayne E. Meyer, who is regarded as the "Father of Aegis" for his service in developing the modern weapon system used by U.S. Navy ships throughout the fleet.

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.