The US Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group departs Danang on June 30.
The port call marked the third visit of a US aircraft carrier to Vietnam since 2018.
The aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) along with the guided-missile cruisers USS Antietam (CG 54) and USS Robert Smalls (CG 62) departed following a five-day port call. The strike group will continue a regularly scheduled deployment in the Indo-Pacific region.
“Ship visits are a routine part of key cooperation among partners,” said Rear Adm. Pat Hannifin, Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70/Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5. “In Danang, sailors engaged in both cultural exchanges and community projects and through these shared experiences, strengthened the bond between our people. US - Vietnam defense cooperation is critical to upholding the rules-based maritime order.”
Sailors participated in cultural and professional exchanges during community service events, sports competitions, ship tours and a formal reception aboard the aircraft carrier. Additionally, Navy musicians from the US 7th Fleet Band performed free public concerts around the city.
“The culinary exchange was an amazing opportunity, and I really enjoyed myself,” said Culinary Specialist 1st Class Rechele Crawford. “They were all really friendly people, and I hope we left a good impression. I think that food really binds people together, and breaking bread with them, eating their cuisine, and teaching them the history of the chocolate chip cookie helped bring our countries together. I hope that the event worked towards building a stronger relationship with Vietnam.”
The three CSG ships hosted more than 1,000 guests for tours, professional exchanges, and a formal reception onboard the carrier attended by the US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc E. Knapper, as well as the Vice Chairman of the Danang People’s Committee Ho Ky Minh.
“I can't think of a better way than to have this carrier strike group here this week to represent our shared values of promoting a strong, independent, prosperous and resilient Vietnam,” said Ambassador Knapper.
