USS Momsen (DDG 92) recently sailed into Ensenada Harbor in Baja California, Mexico.

The crew spent three days exploring the Mexican culture by engaging in several weekend festivities. The 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 visit, Momsen provided ship tours to Mexican Sailors, comparing and contrasting characteristics of both navies and their respective missions.  In turn, the Mexican Navy challenged Momsen to a soccer match, attended by two Mexican Admirals. 

The Momsen team, dressed in non-matching exercise gear, was bused 45 minutes from the Mexican Navy base to the well-landscaped soccer field. During the warm-up period, it was apparent that Momsen faced a stellar Mexican soccer team, comprised of both Army and Navy personnel, dressed in matching uniforms. 

During the game Momsen’s Ensign Allison Cady scored two goals, while Ensign Brad Feige scored one. Despite these valiant efforts, Momsen fell short, losing 8-3. Following the game, the Mexian Navy hosted Momsen to an enjoyable barbecue, complete with steak fajitas and bratwurst. 

Because Momsen was anchored in the Ensenada Harbor, the Mexican Navy arranged for two liberty boats to transport personnel to and from Momsen. The half-hour boat journey allotted Momsen Sailors an opportunity to gaze upon the beautiful harbor that surrounds Ensenada, noting the prominent, 200 square-foot Mexican flag which marks the cruise ship dock in downtown Ensenada. 

As each small liberty boat neared Momsen, it used two lines to connect to the ship’s accommodation ladder, which was rigged alongside the ship’s hull. Momsen’s Deck Division, assisted Sailors as they all safely transited from the liberty boats to the ship. 

Additionally, the rest of the Momsen crew engaged in several tour packages, including a popular wine tour through the local countryside. Ninety percent of the wines are produced right in Ensenada.

Along with wine, Sailors were offered cheese and bread, and an in-depth history of Ensenada. Other Momsen Sailors opted for the adventure tour, which provided Sailors a chance to experience the culture, history and geology of Ensenada. 

During the tour, Sailors visited a local flea market, several historical landmarks, and the world’s largest blowhole. Sailors gazed in awe as the blowhole blasted water high into the air and then watched as the high tides battered against the bluffs surrounding Ensenada’s harbor. 

Momsen, an Arleigh Burke-Class Guided-Missile Destroyer, is homeported in Everett.