Official U.S. Navy website - Commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet

GOA, India  – USS Gridley (DDG 101) arrived in Goa, India, Sept. 13 for a routine port visit while transiting the Indian Ocean.

While in port, Gridley Sailors are expected to conduct professional exchanges with Indian navy officers and sailors as well as a sports day and a community service event with the Don Bosco All-Boys School.

"We look forward to conducting some volunteer activities during the visit," said Cmdr. Gadala Kratzer , commanding officer of Gridley, “We also look forward to enjoying some time off in the city and surrounding areas; seeing the sights, enjoying the local food and entertainment, meeting new friends, and learning about the history and culture of this fine city.”

For many Gridley Sailors, this will be their first time in India.

“I joined the Navy to travel and to experience other cultures and to see places and things that I would otherwise never have the opportunity to do,” said Lt.j.g Ian Neale. “Coming to India gives me the unique opportunity to experience life and to see things through the eyes of other people and cultures.”

Spending time with Indian Navy counterparts increases the two navies’ ability to work together and understand each other’s processes.

“The US has many common interests with India including mutual security, the prosperity of our people and the promotion of freedom and democracy,” said Kratzer, “Port visits such as this one help both our countries work together to advance peace and stability.”

Gridley is homeported in San Diego, Calif., and is on a routine deployment through the Western Pacific and Indian Oceans.