After Delivery, PCU New York Crew Looking Forward to Missions
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS090827-32
Release Date: 8/27/2009 5:46:00 PM
By Mass communication Specalist 1st Class Corey Lewis, PCU New York Public Affairs
AVONDALE, La. (NNS) -- Pre-Commissioning Unit New York hit another major milestone Friday. Northrop Grumman delivered the ship to the Navy during a ceremony at 9:11a.m. at Northrop Grumman Shipyard.
The ceremony was attended by the crew and many workers who have worked on the ship since the keel was laid.
"It has been a long day coming," said Cmdr. Curt Jones, New York's commanding officer. "To the shipyard, you guys have delivered the best ship to ever be delivered and that is not just my opinion. I have the paper work to prove it."
The New York has 7.5 tons of World Trade Center steel in her bow. The delivery was made official when Jones signed for custody of the ship.
"To the crew of the New York, the ship is nothing without you," said Cmdr. Quentin King of PMS 317, a liaison command between the Navy and Northrop Grumman. "You guys have been given a great responsibility and privilege to be her first crew."
Following the signing, Jones was rung on board with the customary four bells and "New York, arriving."
The ceremony concluded with the crew assembling on the flight deck to observe the national ensign being raised for the first time while the national anthem played.
The New York is the fifth amphibious transport dock of the San Antonio class. The ship was named New York after the state and her motto is "Strength Forged through Sacrifice. Never Forget."
"This ship is a first responder," Jones said. "Have no doubt in your mind what your mission is, and I have no doubt we will execute that mission."
For more news from PCU New York visit www.navy.mil/local/lpd21.
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