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South Florida Welcomes Ships of Fleet Week U.S.A.

Navy NewStand

Story Number: NNS030502-04
Release Date: 5/2/2003 11:43:00 AM

By Journalist 2nd Class Amy Pomeroy, Public Affairs Center Norfolk and Chief Journalist Celeste B. Rubanick, NR MOPAT DET 208

PORT EVERGLADES, Fla. (NNS) -- Fleet Week U.S.A. kicked off April 28 in South Florida, as part of what organizers are calling a National Salute to the U.S. Military.

The community welcomed five Navy warships featuring Norfolk, Va.-based guided-missile destroyers USS Cole (DDG 67), USS Stout (DDG 55), USS McFaul (DDG 74) and destroyer USS Thorn (DD 988); as well as the Mayport, Fla.,-based guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64).

The South Florida community has welcomed the Navy with open arms. Welcoming activities included a party at the Las Olas riverfront in Fort Lauderdale, where the ships' crews were treated to free food and beverages.

Chief Fire Controlman John D. DeAngelis, aboard Cole, said Fleet Week offers the community an opportunity to get a closer look at the Navy. "I think it's awesome that we're here. It gives the public a chance to see what the Navy really does."

In port, Sailors anticipate keeping busy while enjoying their special liberty. "I'm looking forward to meeting all types of new people and seeing everything Fleet Week has to offer," said Gas Turbine System Technician (Mechanical) 2nd Class Edwin Gonzalez aboard McFaul.

Throughout the week, participating ships offer special tours to civic and social organizations, Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) units and school groups, giving them a chance to interact with crew members and learn about the Navy.

Students of all ages, Junior ROTC cadets and local residents were met by smiling red-jacketed volunteers who led the groups to their escorts, who then led them aboard their respective ship and its tour guide.

Jessica Montero, a Felix Verala High School (Miami) senior and Navy Junior ROTC cadet, was "really impressed" with her group's tour of Stout, a guided-missile destroyer.

Retired Cmdr. Charles R. Leo, senior naval science instructor, enjoyed watching the students' excitement as they climbed from deck to deck.

"We've been planning this trip since January," Leo said. "It's the first chance we've had to visit a ship. It's a little disappointing that we can't go into the skin of the ship due to security restrictions, but it'll still be valuable training. Hands-on beats classroom learning every time."

Their visit to the bridge, from where the captain gives directions, was the highlight of the tour, as one student after another posed for photos "at the helm" or "in the chair."

The ships are scheduled to be in port for four days before returning to training in preparation for their upcoming deployment with the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) Carrier Strike Group.