Navy's Newest Destroyer Arrives in Boston for Commissioning
Navy Newsstand
Release Date: 11/04/2002
By Journalist 3rd Class Natlie Davis, Naval Reserve NIB New England Public Affairs
BOSTON (NNS) -- Pre-commissioning Unit (PCU) Preble (DDG 88), the Navy's newest and most technically advanced Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, arrived at Boston's World Trade Center Saturday, Nov. 2 to begin a week's worth of events culminating in the ship's commissioning.
"I recommended the ship be commissioned in Boston for three reasons," said Cmdr. Tim Batzler, Commanding Officer of PCU Preble. "First, Commodore Edward Preble, for whom the ship is named, was born nearby in Portland (then part of Massachusetts). Second, his legacy involved the USS Constitution, which is now homeported here in Boston. And, finally, Boston's always had a great reputation as a Navy town!"
While in Boston, the ship's crew will participate in a number of events around the city including tours, ceremonies and sporting events. "The community is great and they're opening their arms to the crew," said Batzler.
According to Batzler, the crew will be treated to a reception at the restaurant, "Cheers" their first night in town. In addition, they will also attend Boston Bruins hockey and Boston Celtics basketball games. Sailors from Preble participated in a wreath laying ceremony at Commodore Preble's gravesite in Portland, Maine, yesterday (Nov. 3).
"I've been so fortunate with this ship and this crew because they are all outstanding," said Batzler. "I think we've set high standards for achievement and succeeded. This crew has been exceptional."
The commissioning ceremony will be held Saturday, Nov. 9 at the World Trade Center in Boston. Among those expected to attend are U.S. Senator Edward Kennedy and the Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Vern Clark.
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