VALETTA, Malta (NNS) -- A descendent of a U.S. Navy Sailor who sailed with the "Great White Fleet" 100 years ago celebrated the anniversary at a ceremony and reception in Malta aboard USS Barry (DDG 52) Jan. 8.

Peter Darley, whose great-grandfather participated in the U.S. Navy goodwill voyage, currently lives in Malta as the managing director of Valletta Gateway Terminals Ltd., the largest shipping company at Grand Harbour in Valletta.

"I am delighted and proud to be here representing my great-grandfather and his presence because I really admire what he did," said Darley.

He learned of his great-grandfather's involvement in the "Great White Fleet" voyage only after researching his family history.

During research that began 25 years ago, Darley learned that his family had a long history of military service. Not only did his great grandfather have an extensive history of maritime service, so had at least three generations before him.

Joseph Darley spent 60 years of his life serving aboard ships. After enlisting at 14, he spent 22 years serving in the Royal Navy before joining the U.S. Navy for higher rank and better pay.

Darley joined the U.S. Navy from South Hampton, England, and was stationed aboard USS Enterprise, a sailing steam sloop of war in June 1888 and eventually rose to the rank of chief yeoman during his 37 years of service.

In 1907, U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt sent a portion of the Atlantic fleet on a world tour to generate international goodwill. The 14-month journey included 16 battleships and 14,000 U.S. Sailors and Marines, including Chief Yeoman Joseph Darley while he served aboard USS Kentucky (BB 6).

During Darley's tour, USS Kentucky visited ports all over the world including South America, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, China, Tripoli, and Algiers before his return to the ship's homeport in Norfolk in February 1909.

"I only hope that one day," said Darley to guests during his speech at the reception, "your grand children and great-grandchildren will be able to tell stories about you like this and enjoy occasions such as this."