Commanding Officer of USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) visits Harstad city hall [Image 12 of 22]

USS Gunston Hall LSD 44 is a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship of the United States Navy. It was commissioned in 2017 and is based at Naval Base San Diego in California. The ship is named after George Washington's home, Mount Vernon, Virginia, and is the fourth ship to bear the name.

The USS Gunston Hall LSD 44 is currently deployed in support of Steadfast Defender 2024, a NATO exercise that will demonstrate the Alliance's ability to deploy forces rapidly from across Europe to reinforce the defense of the region. The exercise is taking place in Norway and involves troops from several NATO countries, including the United States, Germany, and France.

During the port visit in Harstad, Port Director Anne-Britt Bekken presented a plaque to Cmdr. Christopher W. Van Loeren, commanding officer of the USS Gunston Hall LSD 44. The plaque was in recognition of the ship's support of Steadfast Defender 2024 and its contributions to the defense of Europe.

The USS Gunston Hall LSD 44 is a critical component of the United States Navy's ability to project power and maintain security interests around the world. The ship is equipped with a variety of weapons systems, including helicopters, artillery, and missiles, and can carry up to 100 troops. It also has the capability to deploy amphibious forces and conduct search-and-rescue operations.

The USS Gunston Hall LSD 44's port visit in Harstad is an important opportunity for the ship to demonstrate its capabilities and strengthen relationships with NATO allies. The exercise Steadfast Defender 2024 will provide valuable training and experience for the troops involved, and will help to ensure that the Alliance is prepared to defend against potential threats to Europe.