SAN DIEGO (NNS) - Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Decatur (DDG 73) returned to San Diego, Calif., after completing a seven-month deployment to the Western Pacific and U.S. Central Command area of responsibility (AOR) April 21.

"Decatur Sailors excelled across the board and have exceeded expectations, living up to the ship's motto, 'In Pursuit of Peace'," said Decatur's Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Ernest Belmares. "Decatur Sailors performed exceptionally."

While in the U.S. Central Command AOR, Decatur conducted maritime security operations to include Al Basrah Oil Terminal defense and maritime interdiction operations.

Decatur also participated in several community relations projects. During their visit to Bahrain, Sailors volunteered several hours reading to autistic children at a local school.

Decatur also provided deterrence, promoted peace and security, preserved freedom of the seas and assisted with humanitarian/disaster response within 3rd Fleet's 50-million square mile area of responsibility in the Eastern Pacific.

For more news from Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/c3f/.