May 17, 2007 – The Navy League of the United States – St. Thomas/St. John Council will welcome the “HNLMS (Her Netherland Majesty's Ship) Zuiderkruis,” arriving St. Thomas on Thursday, May 17, at 9A, WICO/Havensight Dock. The Zuiderkruis is making the St. Thomas Port Call for Crew (155) R&R. The ship is under the command of Commander Oscar G.H. van Lent MPA, RNLN.
At more than 25 years old, Hr. Ms. (Her Majesty's) Zuiderkruis is the Royal Netherlands Navy’s second-oldest ship. Along with Hr. Ms. Amsterdam, Zuiderkruis provides the royal navy with supplies and support during overseas deployments. She entered service in 1975 as the second ship of the Poolster Class and is at the end of her life in the Dutch Navy.
The Navy League of the United States – St. Thomas/St. John Council will host a private Officer’s Reception on May 18. The Commander invites Virgin Island residents to an open house/tour of the ship on from 1-4 p.m., on Sunday, May 20. Government issued photo identification is required. For additional information, please contact Tom Hoffman at 690-1866.