 Destroyer USS Donald Cook departed naval station Rota, Spain, for its first patrol of the Sixth Fleet area of operations earlier this month. Donald Cook is the first of four destroyers to join the Navy's four deployed naval forces in Rota. The ships will be part of a phased, adaptive approach to protect European allies, U.S. forces in the region, and U.S. interests against ballistic missile threats. The U.S. Navy is committed to helping enhance the security and stability of European and African nations, and our forward presence, activities and engagements in the region are routine. Donald Cook will also perform other missions including NATO missile defense, maritime security operations, and training exercises. While on patrol, the ship will add to European presence and be where it matters, when it matters. From the Defense Media Activity, I'm Petty Officer Tony Rosa.