The USS Blue Ridge Navy 7th Fleet flagship has docked, making it a formal port call in the Philippines.
The USS Blue Ridge, also known as the LCC-19, is an amphibious command and control ship equipped with advanced communication and information systems that effectively handle naval or maritime operations.
The Commander of the United States Navy Seventh Fleet (C7F ) VAdm. Fred Kacher paid a visit yesterday at the Philippine Navy office.
The Philippine Navy Vice Commander RAdm Cesar Bernard Valencia, welcomed Kacher who represented Navy Flag Officer-in-Command VAdm. Toribio Adaci Jr.
The US Navy 7th Fleet’s deployment to the country comes amid growing tension between the Philippines and China over disputed territory in the West Philippine Sea.
Meanwhile, Senator Francis Tolentino and US Ambassador MaryKay L. Carlson were among those who welcomed the ship to its port of call.
Before this event, the United States Navy 7th Fleet Flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) and the French Navy Aquitaine-class frigate FS Bretagne (D 655) conducted a maneuvering exercise.
The drill is part of the Valiant Shield 2024 military exercises and was joined too by Japan and other countries. Aileen Lor
