The Los Angeles class nuclear submarine with 110 officers and crew member arrived here on the morning of Tuesday, according to Saipan Seaport manager Mary Ann Lizama, who handed the visiting sailors maiden port call plaques during a ceremony at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3457.
VFW Post 3457 Cmdr. Mariano Fajardo hosted the sailors and also exchanged plaques of appreciation with USS Hampton Cmdr. William Houston.
Last night, Houston and his team received plaques of appreciations from Gov. Benigno R. Fitial and the Saipan Chamber of Commerce.
Houston said he and his crewmembers appreciate the very warm welcome that greeted them upon their arrival.
He said Saipan gave them the kind of hospitality they never get any where else.
CNMI Military Liaison and Veterans Affairs Executive Officer Ruth Coleman said the USS Hampton officers and crew are here for their rest and recreation.
Her office, Coleman said, is extending its gratitude to the visiting sailors, and hopes that they enjoy what the island has to offer.
The people of the CNMI are patriots who are happy to welcome visiting men and women serving their nation, Coleman said.
