SUVA, Fiji - The guided-missile destroyer USS Stockdale (DDG 106) arrived in Suva, April 30, for a scheduled port visit.
The visit provides Sailors the opportunity to explore Fiji and deepen relationships with its people.
“Stockdale is looking forward to visiting Fiji and exploring this beautiful island," said Cmdr. Leonard Leos, Stockdale's commanding officer. "Port visits like this are a wonderful opportunity build deeper ties with our longstanding partners in this region."
Stockdale's routine port visit is part of the continuance of the relationship between the two nations. The U.S. and Fiji have had diplomatic relations for nearly 50 years, and for years U.S. Pacific Fleet ships have routinely visited Fiji and partnered on regional security initiatives.
For many Sailors this is their first time in Fiji.
“I am excited to see the beautiful scenery that Fiji has to offer,” said Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 2nd Class Diamond Walker, from Gastonia, North Carolina. “I plan on visiting an orchid garden and a Hindu temple to re-center myself and come back to the ship refreshed and ready to finish this deployment strong.”
Stockdale Sailors will also have the opportunity to participate in community relations events while visiting Fiji.
Stockdale is deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.