US Navy warship arrives in Malta for a scheduled port visit

The USS Bulkeley (DDG-84), an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer warship from the United States Navy has arrived in Valletta for a scheduled port visit, the US Naval Forces of Europe and Africa announced on Friday (today).

The port visit marks the vessel’s first in 2024, as the ship continues its regularly scheduled patrol in the US Sixth Fleet area of operations. The ship will be docked in Malta until 12th February, berthing at Valletta Waterfront’s Pinto Wharf.

Launched in 2000 and commissioned in 2001, the ship is the 34th destroyer of its class, and is named for Medal of Honor recipient John D. Bulkeley, who was a Vice Admiral in the US Navy and one of its most decorated naval officers. It was the 15th ship of this class to be built at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi, US. The ship has received a number of awards and accolades, including the Navy Unit Commendation and the Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, among others.

The navy stated that this visit enables the US to build on its relationship with Malta and also allows the ship’s crew the opportunity to experience the local culture. During the ship’s time in Malta, the crew will explore the sights, history, cuisine, and culture that the country has to offer.

“Patrol has been a very professionally rewarding experience for this hardworking crew,” Bulkeley Commanding Officer Richard Slye said.

“I can think of no better opportunity than a stop in beautiful Malta to see and experience this beautiful country,” Commander Slye added.

“Malta has an incredibly rich and unique heritage. I am very excited to get to see its art and architecture in person again,” said Sonar Technician, Surface 3rd Class Christopher Tarantino. “Malta hosts some of Caravaggio’s most inspiring masterpieces, which I hope to experience firsthand,” he continued.

The squadron embedded aboard the Bulkely are the “Griffins” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 79. The ship is on a scheduled deployment in the US Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by the US Sixth Fleet to defend US, allied, and partner interests.

The US Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, which operates the US naval forces in its command in Europe and Africa. It is headquartered in Naples, Italy.

This is not the first time that the ship has docked in Malta, with previous visits also being reported in 2004 and 2008.