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

USS NEW ORLEANS, At Sea - Sailors and Marines aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) were treated to a "Cinco de Mayo" themed celebration during a "steel beach" picnic, May 5.

The fiesta was sponsored by the ship's Chief Petty Officer Mess, which prepared all the food, provided music for the celebration and cleaned up afterward.

Sailors and Marines enjoyed an all-you-can-eat Mexican buffet on the ship's flight deck which included nachos and salsa, a build your own taco and burrito bar, chicken enchiladas, shredded beef fajita meat, burritos and refried beans.

Seaman Colton Lewin said he was appreciative of all the hard work and effort put into the event.

"Anytime we break up the monotony of the normal work day, it's a good day," said Lewin. "I also think that whenever our senior leadership takes the time out of their day to make sure the crew has a good time, it says a lot about where their priorities are."

The fiesta gave Sailors working in the galley and food service attendants the opportunity to enjoy a much-needed break during the fiesta.

"Basically, we just wanted to give our supply division some time off and give the crew something different," said Chief Personnel Specialist Alexandria Dyer. "It's also so we can all enjoy a relaxing day and so everyone can enjoy some awesome food."

New Orleans and embarked Marines assigned to the 11th MEU are deployed as part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.]