USS Wasp arrives in Limassol for routine port visit

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

During their stay, the crew will engage in a routine liberty port, explore local culture, and participate in a community relations event in collaboration with the Agios Stefanos Foundation. Captain Christopher Purcell, commanding officer of the USS Wasp, emphasized the significance of such visits in strengthening ties with partner nations, noting that Sailors and Marines are eager to experience Cyprus's culture and cuisine while volunteering locally.

The Republic of Cyprus is a common stop for US Navy ships 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 port call in Larnaca.

The Limassol visit is the second liberty port stop for the USS Wasp and its crew since their deployment began on June 1, 2024.

The USS Wasp (LHD-1) Amphibious Assault Ship spotted at the port of Limassol, Cyprus pic.twitter.com/2Hj9lvN9Y8

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