USS Hershel “Woody” Williams Docks in Luanda, Angola for Strategic Port Visit

The Hershel “Woody” Williams, an ESB-class ship, recently marked its second visit to Luanda, following a previous engagement in November 2022. This visit aims to bolster the U.S.-Angolan partnership with a focus on enhancing maritime security and domain awareness. Concurrently, the MARDET unit will participate in joint training exercises with Angolan partners onshore.

A highlight of the visit includes a scheduled reception on the USS Hershel “Woody” Williams for senior Angolan government and military leaders. The crew is also set to engage in community relations initiatives alongside local partners. These interactions will offer Sailors and Civilian Mariners an opportunity to experience Angolan culture and historic landmarks while fostering goodwill and mutual understanding.

“We are honored to bring the USS Hershel ‘Woody’ Williams to Luanda, Angola, in support of maritime domain awareness,” stated Capt. Michael Concannon, commanding officer of the Hershel “Woody” Williams Gold MILCREW. He emphasized the crew’s enthusiasm about collaborating with Angolan partners to share knowledge and enhance security and stability in the region. This visit not only amplifies operational readiness but also nurtures long-lasting relationships built on trust and cooperation.

Continuing its deployment across the African continent, Hershel “Woody” Williams will undertake various exercises and operations alongside regional allies and partners. The presence of a capable naval force is vital for ensuring maritime security and underscores a shared commitment to regional stability. This cooperation aims to strengthen bonds among partnered and allied naval forces.

Forward deployed to Souda Bay, Greece, Hershel “Woody” Williams is the first U.S. Navy ship assigned to the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) area of responsibility. The ship is equipped to handle a range of missions, including expeditionary operations, counter-piracy, maritime security, and humanitarian and disaster relief. Its unique capabilities form a crucial part of the infrastructure supporting the deployment of forces and supplies for global missions. The ship’s blue and gold crews enable it to remain continuously deployed in the AFRICOM region.

For over 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) have built strategic relationships with allies and partners. These alliances are grounded in shared values and are essential for preserving security and stability.

Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF oversees U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. The U.S. Sixth Fleet, permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, conducts a full range of joint and naval operations to support these goals.