USS Wasp Arrives in Limassol for Scheduled Port Visit and Community Engagement

b uss wasp in limassol

The USS Wasp (LHD 1), an amphibious assault ship part of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Special Operations Capable (SOC), arrived in Limassol on August 8, 2024, for a scheduled port visit, as announced by the US Fleet Forces Command on Thursday.

During their stay, the crew will partake in a routine liberty port, immerse themselves in the local culture, and engage in a community relations project in partnership with the Agios Stefanos Foundation. Captain Christopher Purcell, commanding officer of the USS Wasp, highlighted the importance of such visits in strengthening relationships with allied nations, adding that Sailors and Marines are enthusiastic about experiencing Cyprus’s culture and cuisine while contributing to the local community.

The Republic of Cyprus is a frequent port of call for US Navy vessels operating in the Mediterranean. In August 2023, the USS Ramage (DDG 61) visited Limassol, and in November 2023, the USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) docked in Larnaca. Earlier this year, the USS Bataan (LHD 5) also made a stop in Larnaca.

This visit marks the second liberty port stop for the USS Wasp and its crew since their deployment commenced on June 1, 2024.