Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus visits the littoral combat ship (LCS) USS Freedom on its maiden SE Asia deployment.
Mabus, the 75th SECNAV, delivered remarks on the flight deck of Freedom to more than 200 foreign dignitaries and representatives from 26 countries, U.S. citizens in Singapore, and Sailors.
Mabus' remarks focused on the Navy's longstanding presence in Southeast Asia and highlighted the new role of littoral combat ships to work with regional navies and promote shared interests.
"There are many key engagements between our allies, partners and friends within this region," said Mabus. "USS Freedom was tailor made for this area and LCS is going to be one of the most crucial platforms the United States Navy has available."
Mabus stressed the U.S. Navy's continued cooperation with regional navies and coast guards to protect freedom of navigation, support maritime commerce and ensure maritime security.
Also on hand to deliver remarks, U.S. Ambassador David Adelman emphasized
the growth of the U.S.-Singapore defense relationship.
"The last three years has seen our relationship deepen dramatically," said Adelman.
"We are committed to a safe and secure region."
Rear Admiral Tom Carney, Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific also addressed the guests.
"USS Freedom's deployment reflects the United States' enduring commitment to stability and security in the Indo-Asia Pacific and we look forward to engaging regional navies on another level in the coming months," said Carney
