US amphibious assault ship arrives in Manila

MANILA, Philippines — An amphibious assault ship of the US Navy is in Manila for a port visit and to participate in a community relations project.

The crew of USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) are in Manila to enhance Philippines-US ties and to experience Filipino culture, according to a release from the US Embassy.

"Following exercise Cobra Gold, we've continued our shipboard training and patrol, and now we have the opportunity to experience liberty in Manila. I'm grateful for the chance to share the amazing culture of the Philippines with the crew during this port call," Capt. Larry McCullen, Bonhomme Richard commanding officer. said.

The more than 2,500 sailors and Marines aboard Bonhomme Richard participated in the multinational exercise Cobra Gold in Thailand prior to the port visit in the Philippines.

Among the participants of Cobra Gold, which focused in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, were Indonesia, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia, South Korea, Singapore and the US.

In Manila, the crew members of Bonhomme Richard will pack food and other supplies for distribution to those affected by the eruption of Mayon Volcano in Albay.

Lt. David Hammond, assistant command chaplain, said that they chose this community relations project in response to a current natural disaster that displaced an estimated 90,000 Filipinos.

"Although we're unable to have personal interaction with the evacuees, we know that our work will reach them. We're grateful for the invitation to play a small role in pitching in to help provide for others during a time of need," Hammond said.

Part of the Amphibious Squadron 11 of the US Navy, Bonhomme Richard operates in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region as part of a regularly scheduled patrol. The ship is named after the frigate commanded by John Paul Jones, a naval commander during the American Revolutionary War.

Just last week, Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Bremerton docked at Subic Bay for a routine visit during its deployment to the Indo-Pacific region.

The visit of Bremerton, a part of the US 7th Fleet, demonstrates the commitment of the US Navy to regional stability and maritime security in the region, the US Embassy said.