Commander Todd Whalen, commanding officer of the Rodney M. Davis, the Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate with the U.S. 7th Fleet visiting Maldives, has said that the aim of the American Navy is to ensure maritime security. Commander Todd Whalen made this remark in reply to a question raised by Miadhu Daily.
He said that they will be holding discussions with the MNDF Coast Guard and the top officials of the Ministry of Defence during this visit.
In view of the concerns regarding the threat of Somalian Pirates, Commander Todd stated that he believes that the join forces in the region has curbed down the threat of pirates.
He said that USS Rodney M. Davis is now 27 years old. He said that such frigates are sunken after 30 years of service.
“Some of the sunken frigates have now become attractive diving spots. Some are sold to some countries. Some are kept for reserve,” he said.
Based out of Everett, Wash., the Rodney M. Davis is on patrol in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility supporting security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. The U.S. Navy vessel is named for Marine Sergeant Rodney M. Davis, who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism in the Vietnam War.
Our aim is to ensure maritime security- Commander Todd
