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Portland's 100th Annual Rose Festival, Fleet Week Concludes

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070613-04
Release Date: 6/13/2007 10:37:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Maebel Tinoko, Fleet Public Affairs Center Det. Northwest

PORTLAND, Ore. (NNS) -- The 100th annual Portland Rose Festival’s Fleet Week came to a close June 11, when four U.S. Navy ships sailed out of the Tom McCall Waterfront Park's seawall.

The guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), guided-missile frigate USS Vandegrift (FFG 48), guided-missile destroyer USS Howard (DDG 83), and guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) departed Portland early morning.

“This was a great port visit and I hope we get to come back next year,” said Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class David Boyd assigned to Vandegrift. “I liked the grand parade and being able to see the sights around downtown Portland.”

More than 5,000 visitors toured the Navy and Canadian ships during the four-day Fleet Week. Festivities for Sailors during Fleet Week included several officially-hosted parties, a waterfront carnival, tours around town and the Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade.

“I love the tax-free shopping here and the people are very friendly,” said Boatswain's Mate 3rd Class Runsiya Fharuendee, assigned to Mobile Bay. “Everywhere we walked in our uniform people passed by and thanked us for serving our country. It felt good to be appreciated for what we do.”

“I look forward to this event each year,” said Electrician's Mate 1st Class Conrad Cruz, assigned to Portland’s Naval Support Center. “My family and I enjoy all the events that went on during the week especially the carnival and winning prizes at the game booths.”

Next year’s Rose Festival will mark the 101st celebration to carry on the tradition. The festival began in 1907 with a rose floral show.

“It was my first time here and I am glad I got a chance to experience the Rose Festival celebration,” said Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Horly Perez assigned to Mobile Security Squadron 3. “The hospitality throughout the week was great. The live entertainment was awesome and I had a really good time here.”