Events in 2009
Port Visits by USS Bataan and USS Ponce
The 844 foot amphibious assault vessel USS Bataan (LHD-5) made a major public relations impact in the first official U.S. ship visit to Thessaloniki in three years, June 4 to June 9. The USS Ponce (LPD-15) also visited Thessaloniki from June 6 to 10. Both ships are part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group participating in joint training with Greek forces. During the visit, Commanding Officer Captain Samuel Howard and ConGen Hoyt Yee hosted a reception for a large group of city officials, business people, academics and other Post contacts on board the Bataan. In welcoming remarks, Captain Howard stressed the versatility of his “ship of peace”, and the ability of the crew of 2200 sailors and marines to deliver both military might and humanitarian aid. The CG noted the long tradition of maritime cooperation linking America and Greece. Additionally, the Commanders of the two ships hosted official luncheons for the city’s officials. Bataan crew members played a friendly basketball game against a Thessaloniki Hellenic Police team. Post organized a number of tours aboard USS Bataan that included citizens/contacts, college students, fifteen Greek Police officers, a soccer team of 45 kids, and a tour for local and national media reps.