Iwo Jima Wraps Up Fleet Week Port Everglades

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (AW/NAC) Eric J. Rowley, USS Iwo Jima Public Affairs

May 4, 2010 - USS IWO JIMA, At Sea (NNS) -- The amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) departed Port Everglades, Fla. May 3, after successfully completing the 20th Annual Fleet Week Port Everglades.

Fleet weeks are designed to show local communities what the military does and the equipment they use. They also give Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen the chance to interact with local communities.

"Fleet Week was fantastic," said Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Cory Clark. "The food and functions were great, and we had the opportunity to listen to a lot of other people's stories. So many people showed their support and everyone was thankful we were there."

Fleet Week Port Everglades offered many opportunities to see and experience different activities in South Florida, such as glass bottom boat tours, fan boat tours of the Everglades, a major league baseball game and beach activities.

Iwo Jima hosted tours where the local community came aboard and learned a little about the Navy and Marine Corps team.

"I enjoyed working as a tour guide," said Aviation Support Equipment Technician 3rd Class Emily Demario.

"It was great to see how interested the children were in what we do. I think it's important for other communities who are unfamiliar with the military to get a chance to see the good in the Navy and Marines. It was one of the best experiences I have had in the military. I learned a lot about my ship and the Marines. I hope I get a chance to do this again soon."

Iwo Jima Sailors and Marines also participated in many community relations projects like children's hospital visits, elementary school visits and Habitat for Humanity.

"There were a lot of great activities to do like baseball games and snorkeling," said Aviation Technician Airman Adam Sexton. "The communities were very supportive of us; some people even bought us meals. It's important to be good ambassadors and do stuff like Habitat for Humanity because it shows that we care about our local communities. I had a blast during Fleet Week."

Overall, the Sailors, Marines, Coast Guardsmen and the community all benefited from the Fleet Week Port Everglades experience.