Chapter Visits Lisbon Naval Base

In November, the chapter organized a visit to the Lisbon Naval Base, in Alfeite, Portugal. The chapter was welcomed by Vice Adm. Luis Carlos de Sousa Pereira, PRT N, who emphasized the commitment of the Navy to maintain collaboration with AFCEA Portugal. Thirty-five chapter members, including members of the corporate body and representatives from government, the military, academia and industry, participated in the event. The program began with an interesting presentation coordinated by the Commander of the Sub-surface Squadron, Capt. Silva Gouveia, PRT N, on the characteristics, potentialities and operational use of the submarines and the Frigates Class “Bartolomeu Dias.” After the presentation the participants had the opportunity to visit two of the most modern naval units; the submarine NRP Arpão, led by Lt. Paulo Henriques Frade and the frigate NRP D. Francisco de Almeida, led by Cmdr. Monteiro da Silva. Taking into account the background of most of the participants, the emphasis was placed on the command and control capacities of both ships. During lunch, Vice Adm. Sousa Pereira, Cmdr. Monteiro da Silva and Lt. Henriques Frade offered to Rear Adm. Mario Durao, PRT N (Ret.), chapter president, "crests" of the respective units. Durao thanked them for the excellent organization of the visit and the interest to the members, offering the AFCEA Portugal medal to Vice Adm. Sousa Pereira. Copies of the commemorative book of the chapter’s 25 years were offered to the remaining officers who contributed to the success of this event.

Event Photographs: