23rd Annual Fleet Week New York Ships Out

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Richard J. Stevens, Navy Public Affairs Support Element, Norfolk

June 2, 2010 - NEW YORK (NNS) -- Fleet Week New York came to a close June 2 as ships departed from the Empire State.

The 23rd annual Fleet Week New York welcomed more than 76,000 visitors, with an estimated 47,000 visiting Manhattan's Pier 88, where multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) was moored.

"I want to thank all of those who represent this fine city," said Capt. Jeffery C. Amick, commanding officer, USS Iwo Jima. Amick said it was an incredible visit for himself and the nearly 2,000 Sailors and Marines embarked aboard Iwo Jima.

"It was a very eventful week," said Master-at-Arms 3rd Class Monica R. Martinez, Navy Reserve Naval Security Force and Naval Medical Center San Diego. Martinez guarded the ship in port at the pier.

"This was my first time in New York and I met a lot of hospitable people," said Martinez. "I loved it and I had a great time. It was a good vacation from San Diego. I will come back to visit."

Some of the events this year included; the Parade of Ships entering the Hudson River, the kick-off Hard Rock Party, Iwo Jima Sunset Parade, Greenpoint Veterans Parade, closing bell for the NASDAQ and NYSE Markets, Memorial Day Parades and a Ground Zero Memorial Run.

Service members participated in several television shows including CBS Early Show, The View, NBC Today Show, and ABC's Good Morning America.

Manhattan resident Matthew Sheller said the military presence in town is good for the city.

"I think it's encouraging having the [Sailors and Marines] here in town," said Sheller. "I think sometimes New York needs a rejuvenation of American spirit."

"Fleet Week in New York City is a big deal, not just in New York City, but all around the country," said Rear Adm. Mark Boensel, commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic." This means that all the exposure that the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard get country-wide this week is really significant."

"The city gets to see the Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen who have been doing the job for this nation, this country, this city and around the world for the last 234 years," said Adm. J.C. Harvey Jr., commander, U.S. Fleet Forces.

"I think I speak for everyone hear, when I say it is our fervent wish that all our men and women serving overseas return home safely and soon," said New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg.