Truman Touches Down in Marseille for a Festive Thanksgiving Celebration

The USS Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group recently visited Marseille, marking the two-month milestone of their deployment. Following extensive operations in the North and Norwegian Seas, the sailors are seizing the opportunity to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Marseille during their liberty time over the Thanksgiving holiday.

This port visit symbolizes the enduring alliance between the United States and France. The two nations continue to deepen their partnership through collective defense initiatives, as demonstrated by the Truman Strike Group’s presence in Marseille. The historical alliance traces back to the American Revolutionary War, underlining a long-standing commitment to strategic cooperation, notably between the U.S. Navy and the Marine Nationale.

Capt. Dave Snowden, the commanding officer of USS Harry S. Truman, expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended by the French government and Marseille’s residents. He stressed the crucial partnership between the countries, underscoring shared values and a mutual commitment to the rules-based international order through NATO. This cooperation enhances naval capabilities and offers flexible options during times of competition, crisis, and conflict.

Prior to arriving in France, the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, along with ships like the Italian Navy’s Carabiniere and the Spanish Navy’s Méndez Núñez, navigated the Strait of Gibraltar into the Mediterranean Sea. The group concluded the NATO-led exercise Neptune Strike (NEST) 24-2, a testament to the U.S. Navy’s dedication to combined force interoperability with NATO Allies. Conducted from October 24 to 31, this exercise aimed to bolster integrated deterrence among nations including Italy, France, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.

Operating within the U.S. 6th Fleet area, the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is actively supporting the defense of U.S., Allied, and partner interests across Europe and Africa. The group is composed of the flagship USS Harry S. Truman, alongside Carrier Air Wing 1, nine aviation squadrons, and additional support ships and staffs. Their mission encompasses prompt combat operations at sea, maintaining a formidable forward presence through sea control and power projection.