The Signature
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U.S. 6th Fleet Celebra U
.S. 6th Fleet (C6F) celebrated its 70th anniversary at sea aboard the Blue Ridge-class command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) and ashore at their headquarters in Naples, Italy, Feb. 12. C6F, established February 12, 1950, provides credible combat forces to Europe and Africa, promoting regional security and stability to ensure safety for the world’s oceans and sea lanes. The C6F area of operation covers more than 100 countries and 67 percent of the world’s coastline, stretching from the North Pole to Antarctica. “The men and women of Sixth Fleet, our Sailors, Marines, Coastguardsmen, civilians, and their families, comprise the finest fighting force in support of our national defense strategy,” said Vice Adm. Lisa M. Franchetti, commander, C6F. “For 70 years we’ve demonstrated the inherent flexibility and power Naval Forces offer 24/7/365, and we are providing options and decision space to our
national leaders.” From conflicts with the Barbary pirates, to the invasion of Normandy, and now to today’s missions in and around the Mediterranean Sea, the U.S. Navy’s history in this massive area of the world stretches back more than 200 years. Today, Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, “Hub of the Med” serves as an essential component in the mission support of CTF-67 and C6F, as our strategic location enables U.S, allied, and partner nation forces to deploy and respond as required to ensure security and stability in Europe, Africa and Central Command. Whether it’s providing the support on the runway or hosting a ship at the NATO pier in Augusta, Sigonella Sailors, Service members, and civilians work together as a team to support the C6F mission on a daily basis. “NAS Sigonella’s ideal geographic location and unique capabilities enable us to provide crucial support
