U.S. Navy Ship Makes Iraq Port Visit

\”Our port visit to Umm Qasr demonstrates the great confidence we have in our Iraqi partners and reflects the marked improvements in security that they have achieved within the past several months,\” Navy Lt. Cmdr. Trent Thompson, Firebolt’s commanding officer, said. \”This visit gave us a chance to interact with senior Iraqi navy leadership and further enhance coalition cooperation with the Iraqi navy and marines.\”

While in port, the ship’s crew members were able to participate in friendship-building activities with several senior Iraqi officers.

\”Making a port visit to Iraq and interacting with Iraqi officers is very important, because it builds relationships and promotes positive interaction between our navies,\” Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class David Moore, an electronics technician, said. \”Today was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I am proud to help make a positive difference in Iraq’s future.\”