SAN DIEGO -- Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Jackson (LCS 6) arrived in Papeete, Tahiti, for a scheduled port visit, Sept. 20.
Jackson is deployed to the Oceania region with an embarked U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Tactical Law Enforcement Detachment conducting maritime law enforcement operations in support of U.S. and Pacific Island nations’ fisheries laws.
“Jackson's port visit to Tahiti reflects the historic and strong relationship between France and the United States,” said Denise Bauer, U.S. ambassador to France. “This visit will present invaluable opportunities to meet with local communities and to reinforce the critical partnership between our forward deployed naval forces.”
Jackson’s Oceania Maritime Security Initiative (OMSI) patrol is part of a Secretary of Defense program that leverages Department of Defense assets transiting the region to improve maritime security and maritime domain awareness, ultimately supporting regional stability and partnerships in Oceania.
“I am extremely thankful for the hospitality and generosity shown to us by the people of Tahiti and members of the French armed forces in the planning for this port visit,” said Capt. Marc Crawford, commodore of Littoral Combat Ship Squadron ONE. “We look forward to deepening the relationship between the Jackson Gold crew and the community during our time in beautiful French Polynesia.”
The Jackson Gold crew conducted a port visit in Fiji, Sept. 11-15, and upon departure from Tahiti will continue their OMSI mission through the end of September.
An integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces in the Indo-Pacific in addition to providing realistic and relevant training across the full spectrum of military operations – from combat operations to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. U.S. 3rd Fleet works in close coordination with other numbered Fleets to provide commanders with capable, ready forces to deploy forward and win in day-to-day competition, in crisis, and in conflict.