“Agility, Synergy, and Support”

I don’t pretend to be a Naval strategist or any kind of expert, but when asked to attend the naval Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise press conference and tour of Japan’s JS ATAGO destroyer, how could I say no?

Synergy

The day began with remarks given by Admiral Patrick Walsh, Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, and Vice Admiral Richard Hunt, Commander, Combined Task Force. Flanked by nation’s RIMPAC leaders, the pair outlined the goals of RIMPAC, its global significance, the positive impact on Hawaii, and the overall synergy of this international event.

Agility

Following the RIMPAC press conference was a tour of the JS ATAGO, a destroyer in the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF). Courteous and hospitable, the JMSDF Officers overviewed the ATAGO and its agile versatility to handle a variety of maritime situations and defend other JMSDF ships.  As a personal observation, this ship was clean, meticulously clean.  Each brass fitting on doors were polished and even the propeller on stowed vessels was gleaming.

Support

In all though, the ultimate outcome of RIMPAC is the teaming and support of all the participants.  Nations share a common bond and learn about other cultures which hopefully promotes global stability.

Agility, synergy, and support – that is RIMPAC 2010.

More pictures.

RIMPAC 2010:

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