On the afternoon of April 16, USS Momsen (DDG 92) moored pierside in Muara Harbor, Brunei, where the crew spent three days exploring its culture by engaging in several recreational activities and community relations projects.  This port visit granted Momsen Sailors an opportunity to not only represent the U.S. Navy, but also represent the United States during the cross-cultural experience. 

During the port visit, Momsen participated in a community initiative called Project Handclasp with a government primary school, Sekolah Rendah SOAS.  Eighteen Momsen Sailors contributed toys, books and other learning materials to the school. 

In return, the Sailors were treated to a tour of the school, a ceremonial tree planting, launching of the new science and computer laboratories, and sampling of several traditional delicacies.  The students also demonstrated several academic lessons in math, science and reading.  The school’s headmaster, Pengiran Osman bin Pengiran Karim said Momsen’s contributions would complement the school’s reading programs.

“In the school’s effort to create a reading culture, there are a variety of initiatives that have been undertaken,” said the headmaster.

On April 18, Momsen’s Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Michael C. Sparks, paid a courtesy call to the Royal Brunei Navy’s Acting Commander, Col. Abdul Halim Mohd Hanifah. Momsen then provided ship tours to Hanifah and nearly 150 Brunei residents. 

One highlight was a visit by the U.S. Ambassador to Brunei, Emil Skodon and his wife, which was covered by several Brunei media representatives.  Other groups touring Momsen included the Ministry of Defense, U.S. Embassy staff and family members, Sekolah Rendah SOAS students and family, and the Boy’s Brigade. 

“Enjoying the culture of different nations is one of the best things about being a Sailor—being able to enjoy that experience and give back a little is very rewarding,” said Sparks.

Another engagement event came from a thrilling softball game between Momsen Sailors and the local Brunei softball team, the Gunners.  The game drew a captive audience who enjoyed watching the difference in softball throwing techniques.  Although the Gunners beat Momsen at a fast-pitch game, Momsen won the slow-pitch softball game.  Following the game, congratulations were exchanged. 

Meanwhile, the rest of Momsen’s crew was engaged in several tour packages, including the popular wilderness adventure tour, day and night city tours, and Mosque tours along with shopping in the expansive Gadong markets.