Iwo Jima Hosts Tours for Fleet Week Port Everglades

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Morgan Dial, USS Iwo Jima Public Affairs

April 28, 2010 - PORT EVERGLADES, Fla. (NNS) -- The multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) kicked off Fleet Week Port Everglades, hosting ship tours April 27.

Iwo Jima invited the local community to visit the ship to learn about the Iwo Jima's mission capabilities and see static displays from Sailors, embarked Marines and Seabees.

Retired veterans, local Sea Cadets, elementary school students and local Naval Junior Recruiting Officer Training Corps students were just some of the many groups that came on board. Stan Wolcyk, a 92-year-old veteran, who retired with a Purple Heart and Bronze Star, was an honored guest.

"I am amazed we have this equipment. I am impressed the Marines and Sailors really know what they are doing, and I am confident they will get the job done to protect our freedom," said Wolcyk.

The tour featured Marine vehicles, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) equipment, harrier jets and the Iwo Jima's medical ward.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 6 displayed equipment used for air, surface and underwater EOD missions; such as the Talon robot, which is used to perform remote controlled EOD operations.

Guests were able to steer the Talon and try on the EOD personal protective equipment.

Explosive Ordnance Technician 3rd Class Matt B. Hulse believes it's important to show the public what they do and why they do what they do.

"The general public can get a feel for what we do. We are a small slice of the Navy, but we play a crucial part in this war," said Hulse.

Iwo Jima is participating in the 20th Fleet Week Port Everglades, South Florida's annual celebration of the Maritime Services. More than 2,500 American and German Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen will participate in a number of community outreach activities and enjoy the hospitality and tourism of South Florida.