PCU Jason Dunham Arrives at Port Everglades
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS101109-01
11/9/2010
By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Desiree D. Green, Navy Public Affairs Support Element East
PORT EVERGLADES, Fla. (NNS) -- The city of Fort Lauderdale welcomed the Navy's future Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Jason Dunham (DDG 109) in Port Everglades, Fla., Nov. 5.
The ship is named after Marine Corps Cpl. Jason Dunham who was mortally wounded by insurgents in Iraq in April 2004 and posthumously received the Medal of Honor Jan. 11, 2007.
"We take great pride that Port Everglades was selected to host this ceremony," said Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jack Seiler, "We are opening our doors and our hearts to the crew. At the end of the day, this week is about celebration. Celebration of the Navy, the crew and Jason Dunham, a true American hero."
The ship's namesake placed his helmet and himself over a grenade to save fellow Marines during combat in Iraq.
"We are honored to carry the name Jason Dunham," said PCU Jason Dunham Commanding Officer Cmdr. M. Scott Sciretta.
The crew has been preparing for the commissioning for nearly two years.
"Our Sailors have given everything they have to build this ship over the last two years," said Sciretta. "We consider ourselves a family, and we will all do this together to fight for our freedom, and we couldn't do it without you."
In preparation for the official commissioning ceremony, the crew has a busy week with more than 300 hours of community service scheduled. They will be volunteering with programs such as Habitat for Humanity and will be assisting local schools.
"It is an honor, pleasure and privilege to be here," said Sciretta. "The love and care that the people of this city have shown is beyond anything that I have ever seen. Our Sailors are excited to get out in the community and give back while we are here."
The ship will be officially commissioned Nov. 13.
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