USS Iwo Jima Embraces New York with Open Arms

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Mavis Tillman, USS Iwo Jima Public Affairs

May 29, 2010 - NEW YORK (NNS) -- USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) welcomed aboard the local New York community to visit and learn about the ship's mission and capabilities while observing displays and demonstrations from Sailors and embarked Marines May 28.

A number of visitors, including residents from the New York area, tourists, retired veterans and members of the American Legion Post 471 of New Jersey, came aboard to interact with service members in their environment.

Ron Cuff of Queens, N.Y., a 48-year-old veteran, was impressed with how far the military has come with technology and the type of equipment housed on board.

"I have been on a few ships, but not one this big. It seems endless," said Cuff.

Some of the featured items were Marine armored vehicles and weapons and Navy shipboard and air operations fire fighting equipment.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 6 displayed equipment used for air, surface and underwater missions, to include the Talon robot used in retrieving improvised explosive devices.

"This type of interaction allows us to show the general public our gear up close, so they can better understand what we do, how we do it and why we do it," said Explosive Ordinance Disposal 3rd Class (DV) Matt Heber of Cincinnati. "When people think of the Navy, they think of water, but our capabilities are on land, air and sea, so this opportunity puts everything into perspective."

Seabees from Under Water Construction Team One also displayed their underwater gear.

"This is an awesome educational experience because we get to display our gear, talk about it and let the viewing public try on our gear as well," said Utilitiesman 1st Class (SCW/DV/SW) Paul Sarniak of Warren, Mich. "It's important for the general public to see just some of the other capabilities the Navy has to offer."

Yumiko Nishikawa, visiting his family in Queens N.Y., was just one of many visitors who skillfully planned his vacation to visit Iwo Jima and see the diving display.

"I have read about them and seen them in movies, but trying the diving gear on is by far the highlight of my vacation," said Nishikawa.

Approximately 3,000 Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen are participating in the 23rd Fleet Week New York, which will take place May 26 - June 2. Fleet Week has been New York City's celebration of the sea services since 1984. It is an unparalleled opportunity for citizens of New York and the surrounding tri-state area to meet Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, as well as see, first-hand, the latest capabilities of today's maritime services.