SASEBO, Japan –
SASEBO, Japan – The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Columbia (SSN 771) arrived in Sasebo July 8 for a scheduled port visit as part of its Indo-Asia-Pacific deployment.
With a crew of approximately 150, Columbia will conduct a multitude of missions and maintain proficiencies of the latest capabilities of the submarine fleet.
“Since departing homeport, Columbia has performed missions vital to national security and participated in exercises which have improved the overall stability of the region and enhanced the combined warfighting readiness of U.S. and allied forces in the Western Pacific,” said Cmdr. David Edgerton, commanding officer.
Columbia is capable of executing anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.
“This is Columbia’s first liberty port since departing from Pearl Harbor, Hawaii in May,” said Command Master Chief Anthony Torres, chief of the boat. “During our time with our gracious hosts, the crew enjoyed this beautiful city and we look forward to returning again during future Western Pacific deployments.”
Many of the crew members were excited to experience the rich culture and attractions of Sasebo.
“I’m really excited to be in Sasebo for a second time with great food, beautiful sites and memories to be made,” said Electronics Technician (Navigation) 2nd Class Samuel D. Vance.
Measuring more than 360 feet long and weighing more than 6,000 tons when submerged, Columbia is one of the stealthiest submarines in the world. This submarine is capable of supporting a multitude of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface ship warfare, strike, naval special warfare, and intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance operations.
Columbia is homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii and departed in May for a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific.