The guided missile frigate USS Elrod (FFG 55) arrived in Morocco for a scheduled port visit, Feb. 2.

During the visit, Elrod is scheduled to host a number of exchanges with Moroccan Royal Armed Forces, including ship tours and a reception for local and U.S. State Department officials.

"I'm looking forward to speaking with some of my Moroccan peers," said Cmdr. Brad Stallings, commanding officer of Elrod. "We'll have opportunities to discuss maritime and theater security as well as gain personal friendships that could go a long way during future operations."

The visit will also provide Elrod Sailors an opportunity to experience Moroccan culture first hand.

"It's not often that people get to say they've had a chance to explore Morocco," said Seaman Kyle Stuart, an Elrod crew member. "There's so much culture and history here. I can't wait to see as much of it as I can for myself."

Elrod is currently on a scheduled deployment in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations.

Upon return from deployment, Elrod is scheduled for decommissioning after more than 30 years of service.