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2009
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Russian journalists question Commander Byrne on U.S.-Russian cooperation in fighting terrorism and piracy.
Russian journalists question Commander Byrne on U.S.-Russian cooperation in fighting terrorism and piracy.
USS Stethem in Vladivostok for a Scheduled Port Visit
The USS Stethem, commanded by Commander Shan Byrne, arrived in Vladivostok for a scheduled port visit on July 1st. The ship is named after Robert Dean Stethem, a U.S. Navy sailor who died in 1985 in Beirut as a result of the terrorist attack on TWA flight 847. The ship was christened on July 16, 1994 by Patricia Stethem, Robert’s mother. The destroyer previously visited Vladivostok in May 2008 when its crew took part in the Victory Day parade in Vladivostok. The current visit coincided with two holidays: U.S. Independence Day and the Day of Vladivostok and included a wide variety of activities such as social events, festive receptions, and community outreach. During the visit the ship commanding officers met with the Russian Pacific Navy command and city officials; ship crew visited the Children's Rehabilitation Center and Children's Hospital, and participated in a conference at the Academy of Sciences. U.S. sailors enjoyed sightseeing, barbeques and participated in an extensive sports program that included soccer, volleyball, and basketball games, field and track competition and a Dragon boat race. The Consulate, Russian Pacific Fleet, and the local government all worked together to ensure that the visit would be a success.