PAGO PAGO, AMERICAN SAMOA -- Guided-missile destroyer USS Shoup (DDG 86) arrived in Pago Pago October 27 as part of the ship’s Oceania Maritime Security Initiative (OMSI) deployment.

OMSI is a Secretary of Defense program that leverages Department of Defense assets transiting the region to improve maritime security and maritime domain awareness, ultimately supporting maritime law enforcement operations in Oceania.

“I am proud of our Sailors’ accomplishments and the dedication they have shown towards supporting our partners in Oceania” said Cmdr. Andy Strickland, commanding officer of USS Shoup. “This is our crew’s first time pulling into American Samoa, and we are excited to experience Samoan culture and engage with the local community.”

Shoup last pulled in to American Samoa in 2006. During this visit, Shoup Sailors will have the opportunity to give back to the locals by participating in several community outreach events including visiting a local elementary school and playing sports.

Commander, U.S. Third Fleet leads naval forces in the Pacific and provides realistic, relevant training necessary for an effective global Navy. They coordinate with Commander, U.S. Seventh Fleet to plan and execute missions based on their complementary strengths to promote ongoing peace, security, and stability.