"I think one of the critical benefits to working here is the involvement of partner nations

in the planning process," Capt. Cynthia Thebaud, Commander Destroyer Squadron 60, commanding officer of Africa Partnership Station, aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS Nashville (LPD 13) told bloggers and online journalists, March 18. "One of the things that we hear said the most frequently is the ... opportunity to come and work in a collaborative and cooperative environment with members of other west and central African navies."

Joining us on the call were David Axe, www.warisboring.com; and Jim Dolbow, www.blog.usni.org/.