British ship in Cuba to mark battle anniversary

from the Associated Press

A British fleet-support ship has docked in Havana's harbor as Cuba and the U.K. prepare to mark the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Havana.

The gray RFA Fort Rosalie arrived Wednesday morning with more than 100 crewmembers aboard. It tied up at the cruise ship terminal and was greeted by a band playing both countries' national anthems.

British forces laid siege to Havana in June 1762 during the Seven Years' War. At the time, the city was an important base for Spanish military power in the Western Hemisphere.

Havana remained under British control until the following year, when Spain ceded Florida under a treaty. The Fort Rosalie usually aids British Navy operations. Its visit coincides with British cultural week, which includes cinematic, theatrical and musical events.