USS Blue Ridge Rock Band plays at Asian University

Red joins Asian University students for a final photograph

Singer Nina Struts her stuff

The USS Blue Ridge has just left Laem Chabang Port after a short visit to Thailand.

USS Blue Ridge is the lead ship of the Blue-Ridge class of command ships of the US Navy and serves as the flagship for the Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet. She was commissioned in 1970 and her home port is in Yokosuka, Japan. Asian University is grateful to the Community Liaison Officer of the Navy League of the United States, Mr. Peter Thorand, who provided the link between the University and the Naval visitors.

The final evening of term (2 May 2008) is traditionally a show by the faculty and students. This year there was a very special opening performance by the USS Blue Ridge Rock Band. They played a variety of up beat music with singer Nina leading the way. The faculty, students and Summer Campers all enjoyed the music and the opportunity to talk with the visiting Americans. After the performance, Ajarn James (Sports Director) presented a plaque to the Naval Officer (Khun Red) in charge of the band, and he has subsequently written to say “it is now proudly displayed aboard the USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), in our rehearsal room.” Thus, a little part of Asian University is travelling around the world with the US Navy!

It is hoped that this is the start of a continuing friendship between the USS Blue Ridge and Asian University.