You could say we're in Naples. But technically we are living about 30 miles north of the city of Naples in a town called Gricignano in the region of Campania, Italy. We will live on the "Support Site" base, which mainly has housing (3-story garden-style apartments, unless you are a Commanding Officer in which case you get one of a handful of villas), the Navy Lodge, schools, the hospital, the Navy Exchange store, the Commissary, the gym and pool, a bowling alley, a food court, a movie theater, and not a whole lot more. But we think the safety from the petty crimes and break-ins Naples is known for is well worth the confinement.
Just outside the gate, I hate to say, is not the beautiful Italy you may be thinking of with jealousy. There are piles and piles of trash everywhere you look. It's really sad. There is also a dangerous narrow overpass that has no pedestrian walkway, which given the fact that Italians are known for their crazy driving, precludes access to much of anything by foot. Heck, it precludes access even by car for a good many Americans, especially those new to the area.
But once we are able to get over the initial culture shock, get a car (with updated GPS!), and venture outside the gate, a whole world of European adventures awaits. And that is why we are here.
The view of
Mt. Vesuvius from base
US Naval Hospital Naples
An apartment building
The girls in front of the Navy Lodge
The apartments look very clean and nice. You guys are gonna have a blast once you all get your "footing" There are loads of inexpensive hopper flights to take. Can't wait to hear about your adventures!
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