USS Blue Ridge left Vladivostok

11.05.2010 Having finished friendly visit to Vladivostok associated with Victory Day's festivities, command ship USS Blue Ridge left Golden Horn Bay and set course to the deep sea on May 11 at 11 am local time, informs RIA Novosti referring to Pacific Fleet (PF) Press Service.

Flagship of US 7th Fleet visited Vladivostok in May 7-11. Vice Admiral John M. Bird, 7th Fleet Commander also paid an official visit to the capital city of Primorsky Krai in the same period. He had a number of formal and courtesy meetings, and took part in festivities along with sailors.

"The visit was held in hospitable and good-natured atmosphere. American servicemen laid a wreath at the eternal flame of Pacific Fleet Battle Fame Memorial having honored defenders of Russia. On May 9 the crew of USS Blue Ridge attended military parade associated with 65th anniversary of the Victory", said the interviewee.

According to him, during WW2 Russia and the U.S. were allies fighting for our common Victory. That fact specifically flavored the visit of American naval mariners and their friendly meetings with locals and Russian counterparts.

"US 7th Fleet's Orchestra was also on board Blue Ridge. Open-air concerts given at esplanades and on scene of Vladivostok Philharmonic Hall were welcomed by all spectators. Jointly with Pacific Fleet's Chorus, the American musicians gave a concert in Officers' Club. They played medleys of Soviet songs and American jazz samples", said the interviewee.

He added that Russian and US mariners had played soccer, volleyball and basketball friendly games. Besides, young chess players of Vladivostok competed with the crew team on board USS Blue Ridge.

Extraordinary contest was held in one of the city's restaurants where cooks of the two fleets competed in cooking American steaks.

US mariners also visited children's cancer detection center, and minors' rehabilitation centers Mayak [Lighthouse] and Parus Nadezhdy [Sail of Hope]. Guests talked with children and handed over gifts.