CNO Makes Fleet Week Appearance on Iwo Jima

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jennifer Hunt

May 2, 2010 - PORT EVERGLADES, Fla. (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), Adm. Gary Roughead visited USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) for a reception celebrating the 20th anniversary of Fleet Week Port Everglades April 30.

The reception, which also included Battle of Iwo Jima veterans, was a show of appreciation from both the local community and visiting maritime services.

"This port, whether it is for Fleet Week or a single ship that comes to visit, it doesn't make any difference because this community, the Navy League, the men and women of this county, and the towns that surround them treat every Sailor the same; as if they are the most special person around," said Roughead.

The CNO went on to say that Fleet Week isn't just about hospitality; it's about highlighting our ever-impressive military and our partnerships with our allies.

"Today and throughout this week, you've seen our Navy. You've seen it in Iwo Jima, Porter and Newport News. You've seen a glimpse of our future in Independence, and you see the strength of our partnerships with our German allies who are here as well," said Roughead.

After the CNO's remarks, he received a key to the city from Fort Lauderdale Mayor, John Seiler.

"It is such an honor to have the Navy here for Fleet Week," said Seiler. "When you leave here you don't realize how much you touch this community. The men, women and children of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., are better because of your visit. You have helped make this community a better place to live, and you have been for the last 20 years."

And it is because of that relationship, military members and local communities are able to partner together on different projects and make a positive difference.

"The men and women of our military don't do what they do for money. They do what they do because they know the American people care about them and they have their support," said Roughead.

This is 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 are participating in a number of community outreach activities and enjoy the hospitality and tourism of South Florida.