USS Leyte Gulf Returns to Ft. Lauderdale
Navy News Service
Story Number: NNS111118-20
11/18/2011
By Lt. j.g. Joseph Hontz, USS Leyte Gulf Public Affairs
FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. (NNS) -- USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) visited Ft. Lauderdale Nov. 14, during the Veteran's Day weekend to pay tribute to the city in which she was commissioned nearly 25 years ago.
While there, the Broward County Navy League treated the crew to a wide range of events including a meal at a local restaurant and an appearance by Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders on board for photo-signing.
Capping the weekend's festivities was a football game at Sun Life Stadium where the Miami Dolphins played the Washington Redskins. During the National Anthem, 55 Sailors were on the field for a presentation of the American flag to the ship by the team.
Fire Controlman 2nd Class Jeff Brickson summed up the experience of being honored on the field in front of so many people as "Awesome. It meant the world to me."
"It was nice to be invited back to a place that actively supports the ship and everything we do," said Ens. Lynsey Warnke, Leyte Gulf communications officer. "They rolled out the red carpet and were extremely hospitable. When we left, we knew that the sacrifices we make daily are truly appreciated by everyone there."
Capt. Brian P. O'Donnell, USS Leyte Gulf commanding officer, expressed his gratitude at a reception held on the flight deck.
"Nobody does it better than the Broward County Navy League," said O'Donnell. "They go above and beyond with their hospitality and generosity. I know the crew is counting down the days until they can get back here."
"The ship and the Sailors mean so much to this community and to us," said Erwin Sefton, a member of the Broward County Navy League. "We do what we can to support our troops."
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