March 3, 2015 –
KURE, Japan – Arleigh-burke class guided missile destroyer USS Lassen
(DDG 82) visited Kure to strengthen their close ties with the Japan Maritime
Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and collaborate on tactical doctrine and warfighting
concepts, Feb. 26-28.
During the visit, Lassen and JMSDF JS Ise (DDH 182) hosted warfighter exchange
discussions and Lassen hosted a reception on board which included senior
leadership from U.S. and Japanese navies.
Capt. Shan Byrne, commodore of Destroyer Squadron 15 stressed the
importance of the U.S.-Japan bilateral alliance, expressed the crew’s
excitement of the port visit and thanked the Japanese hosts for their warm
hospitality.
In addition to the military-to-military training, Sailors from Lassen
had the opportunity to see a different part of Japan and enjoy the culture.
“I never expected our interactions with the Japanese Navy to be so warm
and brotherly, and to experience the splendor of this area,” said Lt. j.g.
Robert Righetti, Lassen’s first lieutenant. “I cannot wait to do something like
this again in the future.”
Lassen is one of seven Arleigh-burke class guided-missile destroyers
assigned to Destroyer Squadron 15 and is permanently forward-deployed to
Yokosuka supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific
region.
Kure is located south-west in Hiroshima prefecture. Established in 1954
as part of the JMSDF, Kure Naval District is one of five regional commands of
the JMSDF, responsible for Japan's Southern and Southeastern coast. Along with several submarine and surface
vessels, Kure is home to supply, ammunition and fuel depots as well as being
located alongside extensive ship repair and refit yards supporting both
assigned and rotating JMSDF assets.