USS Momsen (DDG 92) recently navigated into Palau, where the crew spent three days exploring its culture by engaging in several recreational activities. 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 visit, Momsen provided ship tours to Palaun students from the local Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, showing approximately 25 future leaders the capabilities and design of a United States warship and its assets. 

The students took turns turning the ship’s helm and sitting in the Captain’s chair in the pilot house, recognized as ship’s central navigation and control center. Students were most impressed with the two helicopters on board Momsen; each student climbed into the pilot’s seat to capture a photo to take home. 

The students then learned about the importance of damage of control and even received a demonstration on donning a fire fighting suit and self-contained breathing apparatus. The tour concluded by explaining the operating of Momsen’s anchoring system, which captivated the young audience.

“It was great to have the Palaun students on board, actively learning about the Navy and our mission.  The excitement in their faces was remarkable,” said Lt.j.g. Courtney Thraen, Momsen public affairs officer.

Momsen also participated in a thrilling softball game sponsored by the Koror Police Officers. 

The softball field, adjacent to the ocean, was the perfect setting for the game, especially when one of the officers knocked two homeruns into the ocean. The game drew an audience of 20 local residents, who laughed each time a player committed an error, such as striking out.

The intense softball game resulted in the Koror police defeating Momsen by one run, 33-32.  After congratulations were shared, the Momsen softball team presented three softballs to the Koror players. 

“They were all very nice, and we had a great time.  There were probably about 20 locals there to watch the game and shared in the laughter when anyone messed up. This was a great opportunity to interact with another culture, and once the game was over, we all shook hands,” said Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Wayne Hamrick, Momsen softball team captain.

Additionally, the rest of Momsen’s crew was engaged in several tour packages, including popular scuba diving, kayaking and snorkeling tours throughout the rock islands. Sailors gazed in awe as they dove underwater to explore the beautiful coral gardens and sea life, swimming only inches from Barricudas , jellyfish, clams along with discovering underwater wrecks. 

Momsen, an Arleigh Burke-Class guided-missile destroyer, is home ported in Everett.