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USS Fort McHenry Departs NAS Key West

Navy News Service

Story Number: NNS120501-18
5/1/2012

By Ensign Laura Price, USS Fort McHenry Public Affairs

KEY WEST, Fla. (NNS) -- The dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) departed NAS Key West, Fla., April 18, following a scheduled four-day port visit.

After a lengthy yard period, Fort McHenry had a large turnover among the crew. For the majority of Sailors, the visit to Key West was their first port visit since joining the Navy.

"For my first liberty port, it was quite an experience," said Operations Specialist Seaman Joshua Powers. "Everyone treated us really well. It has gotten me really excited for future port calls."

With such a new crew, the visit gave the ship a chance to practice liberty policies that will be in play when the ship deploys later this summer. The simple practices of being accountable for fellow shipmates, abiding by curfew, and maintaining an accurate liberty log were all executed flawlessly, and gave the crew a chance to see how it will work when visiting overseas ports.

While visiting Key West, Sailors had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture.

"The parasailing was spectacular," said Interior Communications 2nd Class Jared Moore. "You could literally see the entire island from up there."

Sailors were able to sample unique dishes including Key West's infamous "Conch Fritters," in local establishments surrounded by live music and entertainment.

For the sight seers on board, there were plenty of notable landmarks. Whether it was visiting the Hemmingway House, posing with mile marker "0", or seeking out the southernmost point in the continental United States, there was something for everyone.

"My favorite area was Duval Street," states Powers. "There were a ton of activities, stores, and places to eat."

While visiting Key West, Fort McHenry Sailors took the opportunity to give back to the community. Eighteen crew members spent a day at the Neece Center for Homeless Recovery, painting both the interior and exterior of the building.

"I wanted to participate in the community relations project, because I wanted to do something for the community that would better the lives for others," said Information Technology Specialist Seaman Amanda Hill. "The time I gave to the Florida Key Outreach Coalition Neece Center really helped out those in Key West who are trying to get back on their feet after struggling with drug and alcohol addiction."

Fire Controlman 2nd Class Petty Officer Melissa Melendez said, "Like it or not, no matter where we go whether it's in or out the United States, we stand out. It's our responsibility to show the world that our Navy and our military are made up of people that care. I look at it as the Golden Rule, 'Do unto other as you would have others do unto you.'"