USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) and the embarked U.S. 7th Fleet staff arrived in Port Kelang, Malaysia, Oct. 26. for a scheduled port visit as part of the ship's fall deployment to further positive relations with regional partners. Port Kelang, located on the Strait of Malacca, is the leading port of Malaysia and the port of its capital, Kuala Lumpur. While in Port Kelang, the 7th Fleet command ship crew and embarked staff will have the opportunity to visit the city known as the gateway into Malaysia and one of the world's busiest ports.
"We are thrilled to be in Port Kelang," said Capt. Thom W. Burke, Blue Ridge commanding officer. "The chance to experience the local culture and hospitality of Malaysia is wonderful for our crew." While in Port Kelang, the 7th Fleet flagship will be able to explore Malaysia during scheduled tours, participate in community outreach projects at Agathians Children's Shelter, Illham Children's Home and Praise Emmanuel Children's Home, and welcome local Port Kelang residents for guided tours of the ship.
"Malaysia is always an anticipated port for our Sailors, and I know a lot of them are excited to get out and explore this colorful port," Burke said. Blue Ridge departed its forward-deployed home of Yokosuka, Japan, Sept. 2 and visited Guam Sept. 12-14, New Caledonia Sept. 23-26, Sydney Sept. 29 to Oct. 6, and Cairns, Australia Oct. 12-16.
Blue Ridge serves under commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 7/Task Force 76, the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious force. Blue Ridge is the flagship for commander, U.S. 7th Fleet. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with an operating detachment in Sasebo,