USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58) pulled into port in Point-Noire, The Republic of the Congo, January 18, 2010, to conduct a series of military-to-military interactions, theater security cooperation engagements, and community relations projects.

While in port, crew members of Samuel B. Roberts will host tours and a reception along with U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of the Congo Alan Eastham , while the ship's leadership participates in meetings designed to further the maritime relationship between both nations' navies.

The crew of Samuel B. Roberts will be providing the Republic of the Congo forces with military-to-military training in combat lifesaving; familiarization with Automatic Information System technology; and small boat maintenance and handling. Commander Chuck Sellers, commanding officer of Samuel B. Roberts, will meet with the Pointe-Noire Prefect, Mr. Honoré Packat and Mayor Roland Bouity Viaudo.

"We are honored to be able to come to Pointe-Noire and partner with the Congolese naval professionals," Sellers said. "The Sammy B sailors look forward to being able to experience another culture."

Many sailors will spend time participating in community relations projects aiding the Diosso Primary School in painting, completing concrete repairs, and building a cistern for water, as well as donating Project Handclasp hygiene and recreation items to the Complex Creche Garnderie de Voumvom. The crew will also participate in a soccer and volleyball game to build up relations, morale, and camaraderie with the Republic of the Congo forces.

Samuel B. Roberts, a guided-missile Oliver Hazard Perry Class-frigate, is homeported in Mayport, Flroida and is currently on a scheduled deployment in the US 6th Fleet area of responsibility.