USA: Fleet Week New York 2014 Kicks Off

Two U.S. Navy ships, the guided-missile destroyers USS Cole (DDG 67) and USS McFaul (DDG 74) cruised through the New York Harbor, kicking off 2014 Fleet Week New York, May 21.

Throughout the week, Sailors and visitors, along with the Marines and Coast Guardsman will participate in various events, including community relations projects, musical festivals, a Memorial Day parade, public ship tours and an official U.S. Navy reception aboard the Cole.

Even though it is not the Cole’s first visit to NY, Cmdr. Dennis Farrell, commanding officer of the ship, said he is pleased to have his first visit in the “Big Apple” while witnessing this remarkable experience.

“I am very excited to be in New York during Fleet Week in support of the mission,” said Farrell. “My Sailors and I are grateful for this experience and I couldn’t be more proud to show off this mighty war ship.”

Many of Farrell’s Sailors are experiencing Fleet Week for the first time, and many more are also new to the city of New York.

Boatswain’s Mate Seaman Velena Taylor, a Virginia native, said she is thrilled to be in New York and is looking forward to experiencing the festivities.

“This has been a great ship experience and I can’t wait to witness the culture and the history New York has to offer,” said Taylor.

Fleet Week New York, now in its 26th year, is the city’s time-honored celebration of the sea services. The weeklong celebration is an unparalleled opportunity for the citizens of New York and the surrounding tri-state area to meet Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen, as well as witness firsthand the latest capabilities of today’s maritime services.

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Press Release, May 23, 2014; Image: US Navy