SEOUL, Republic of Korea - U.S. Pacific Fleet Master Chief Marco Ramirez met with Sailors assigned to Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Korea and other tenant commands at U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan in Seoul, Nov. 14.

Ramirez, the 16th Fleet Master Chief for the U.S. Pacific Fleet, told Sailors the purpose of his visit was to share the vision, guiding principles, and strategic imperatives of the Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, Adm. Harry B. Harris, Jr.

"Korea based Sailors play an important role for the Pacific Fleet," said Ramirez. "They are operating forward and ready to fight tonight if required, and we think about them on a daily basis at our headquarters at U.S. Pacific Fleet."

During Ramirez's visit he also discussed the Navy's new fire-retardant coveralls and answered questions ranging from possible budget constraint issues to fighting terrorism abroad.

"He was telling the truth, not just saying what people wanted to hear," said Personnel Specialist 3rd Class Kristina Thuemler. "It was very productive and a lot of information was put out that people were waiting to hear. The event was really informative."

As he concluded, Ramirez thanked Korea-based Sailors for their hard work and their service.

"They're proud to be in Korea and they should be," said Ramirez. "They're professional, they take care of each other, and they are all staying ready to fight."

Ramirez will speak with Sailors at Commander, Fleet Activities Chinhae before leaving Korea and will then travel to Japan and Guam as he continues his engagements with Sailors around the Pacific.