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ROC Congolese government, military and community leaders join HWW port visit

Capt. Chad Graham, commanding officer of the USS Hershel "Woody" Williams, walks with Republic of Congo senior military leaders, embassy staff and dignitaries while visiting an Armed Forces of the Republic of Congo installation, Sep. 12, 2022.

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Photo by: Staff Sgt. Dylan Murakami 

The port visit marks the first U.S. ship visit to the Republic of the Congo in more than a decade and demonstrates the strengthening security relationship between the two countries. While in Pointe Noire, the ship's crew hosted ship tours and a reception for government, military and community leaders and participated in a soccer game with local youth.

“We are grateful to the Republic of Congo for allowing us this port visit – it’s a great honor to be the first U.S. ship to visit after such a hiatus," said Capt. Chad Graham, commanding officer of Hershel “Woody” Williams. "I look forward to strengthening the already great relations we have between the U.S. and Congo, and that we continue to support one another as we pursue safety and security in the region."

The Republic of Congo is an important partner of the U.S. in promoting peace and security in Africa. Additionally, the Republic of Congo participated in exercise Obangame Express 2022, the largest annual maritime security exercise in Western Africa. These types of exercises strengthen partnerships and allow our countries to work closely on shared transnational maritime goals.

“Given the Republic of Congo’s location and its important role in maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, the security partnership between the United States and the Republic of Congo continues to grow and holds many opportunities and possibilities to advance our shared interests in the region,” said Eugene Young, U.S. Ambassador to Republic of the Congo. “The visit of USS Hershel “Woody” Williams demonstrates our commitment to further strengthen that partnership.”   

U.S. Naval Forces Africa’s ongoing maritime security cooperation with African partners focuses on maritime safety and security through increased maritime awareness, response capabilities, and infrastructure. It also includes various exercises and operations conducted by U.S., European, and African partners and allies throughout the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility.

“We are delighted and honored by the government of the Republic of Congo and the Congolese Armed Forces' willingness to host such an important ship visit in the region, and we hope to continue similar official visits in the future,” said Lt. Col. Joshua Thyer, defense official at U.S. Embassy Brazzaville.

The U.S. shares a common interest with African partner nations in ensuring security, safety, and freedom of navigation on the waters surrounding the continent, because these waters are critical for Africa’s prosperity and access to global markets.