USS Carney departs Alexandria, Egypt

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class James R. Turner | January 18, 2018

ALEXANDRIA, Egypt --

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64) departed Alexandria, Egypt, Jan. 17, 2018, after a port visit that enhanced relationships between the Egyptian Navy and the U.S. Navy.

This visit builds upon a long history of positive navy-to-navy cooperation dating back to the Great White Fleet’s Egypt visit in 1909, while improving the collective ability to provide maritime security in the region. 

“It’s an honor to be the first U.S. Navy warship since 2009 to visit Alexandria, Egypt” said Cmdr. Peter Halvorsen, commanding officer of the Carney. “It was an opportunity to share knowledge and experiences with one another and the visit paves the way for future visits and future navy-to-navy exercises.”

While in Alexandria, Carney’s crew hosted a reception for Egyptian and regional U.S. leaders whose principal guests included Egyptian navy Rear Adm. Ehab Mohamaed Sobhy, commander of Alexandria Naval Base and the U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Dorothy Shea.

Additionally, thirteen Sailors from Carney’s crew participated in a friendly soccer match with Egyptian Sailors increasing comradery and overall relations through sportsmanship.

“The Egyptians were gracious hosts,” said Master Chief Gary Rosenbaum, command master chief of the Carney. “It was a tough and spirited game, but we knew it was about more than the score. After the game, photos were taken and gifts exchanged. Sportsmanship was displayed at the highest levels. It was an opportunity for the two countries to come together and practice diplomacy on the deckplate level.”

Carney, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain is currently supporting the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations to reassure allies and partners and preserve the freedom of navigation and free flow of commerce in the region.