USS Blue Ridge, flagship of the U.S. Seventh Fleet, makes historic visit to Palau

The U.S. Seventh Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) made a historic port visit to Palau this week to foster stronger ties and exchanges between the two countries and between service members and the local community.

The ship carries Vice Admiral Fred W. Katcher, commander of the U.S. Seventh Fleet, “the largest forward-deployed fleet in the United States,” covering the western Pacific to the Indian Ocean.

Last night, local dignitaries and officials held a lively reception with the officers and crew of the USS Blue Ridge. Vice Admiral Katcher and U.S. Ambassador to Palau Joel Ehrendridge delivered welcoming remarks and noted that the arrival of the U.S. Seventh Fleet flagship Blue Ridge was a testament to the close relationship between the United States and Palau.

Since arriving on Saturday, August 10, its band has hosted a rock concert at the Night Market, a softball tournament at the Airai Baseball Stadium on Sunday, and a wind band concert at Bethlehem Park. Today, August 13, it will host a cruise from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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