US destroyer docks in Poland

The vessel has been operating in the Baltic Sea, where it has been “working with allies and regional partners to enhance joint operational abilities and promote peace and stability in the Baltic region,'' as described by the US Embassy.

While in Gdynia, the US ship's commanding officer, Commander Darren T. Dugan, will talk with military and local government officials, among them Captain Tarkowski, Chief of Staff of the Polish 3rd Flotilla; Rear Admiral Stanisław Zarychta, Commander of the Polish Maritime Operations Centre; and Mr. Wojciech Szczurek, mayor of Gdynia.

Meanwhile, the crew of the USS Jason Dunham will meet some of their counterparts in the Polish Navy, providing an opportunity to “strengthen bonds.”

According to the US Embassy, “the ship’s visit to Poland reaffirms the United States’ commitment to Poland’s security and NATO Article 5 responsibilities.”

The USS Jason Dunham counts among the U.S. Navy’s most advanced vessels. It carries SH-60 SeaHawk helicopters, SM-2 surface-to-air missiles, and Tomahawk cruise missiles. The vessel takes its name from Marine Corps Corporal Jason Dunham, recipient of the Medal of Honor, who perished in Iraq while saving the lives of two fellow Marines. (nh)