USS McInerney Visits Cozumel, Mexico

McInerney's stay in Cozumel for the New Year's weekend offered the crew a break from their current deployment and the opportunity to interact with Mexican Sailors.

Ensign Jeremy Biggs, the ship's 1st lieutenant, said the McInerney received a warm and embracing reception.

"The people of Cozumel are terrific," said Biggs. They are warm, friendly and love to show off their beautiful island. I would love to return for a vacation."

During their visit, the McInerney crew welcomed members of the Mexican Navy on board for a tour. The group of 22 Mexican Sailors, both officer and enlisted, were escorted around the ship by Ensign William Finney and Ensign Jon Hirsch.

"It was interesting to be able to share our ship with another country and another navy," said Finney. "We all seemed to have the same goals and aspirations for our countries. The Mexican Navy guests were really excited to be on board, see some of our major systems and meet the crew. It made our port visit seem more important."

The numerous shops, restaurants, beaches and recreational activities provided a great breather for the crew. Scuba diving, snorkeling and fishing were the most popular activities, as Cozumel is home to the largest reef in the Americas as well, and many protected nature areas.

Surface Sonar Technician Seaman Joseph Meadors said, "The snorkeling was awesome. The water was really clear and there were tons of different types of fish and wildlife. That was definitely a highlight of my visit to Cozumel and I can see why they are famous for water sports here. My friends and I had a great time."

McInerney is underway conducting exercises and operations at sea in support of the Joint and Inter-Agency counter-drug efforts in the U.S. Southern Command area of operations. In port, the ship participates in events ashore to support U. S. Naval Forces Southern Command (NAVSO) Theater Security Cooperation efforts through military-to-military contact with regional maritime forces.