USS Iwo Jima Sunset Parade Demonstrates Navy Professionalism to New Yorkers

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Travis J. Kuykendall

USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Public Affairs

NEW YORK (NNS) -- The multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) hosted the 24th annual Fleet Week New York Sunset Parade May 29.

Adm. John Harvey, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command; Rear Adm. Ted Branch, commander, Naval Air Forces Command; and, many other distinguished visitors from the New York Metro-area were in attendance to watch special performances and evening colors on Iwo Jima's flight deck.

"The Sunset Parade is steeped in the age-old naval tradition of flying the National Ensign when a ship is in port," said Capt. Grady Banister, Iwo Jima's executive officer. "Twice a day, at 8 o'clock in the morning and at sunset, the formal acts of morning and evening colors are carried out."

The Sunset Parade included performances by U.S. Marine Corps Band New Orleans, U.S. Coast Guard Silent Drill Team, and the Leatherneck Pipe and Drum Band from Paramus, N.J.

"New York was once a big Navy town and has always maintained a rich maritime heritage," said Branch. "Even though the Navy no longer has a permanent presence in the Big Apple, I can assure [you] that our Sailors still love to visit and this is a great liberty port."

The Sunset Parade has become a tradition during Fleet Week New York, as a culminating reception for guests to socialize with service men and women the evening before Memorial Day.

"I can think of no better way of celebrating Memorial Day weekend than with the people of New York City," said Rear Adm. Herman Shelanski, commander, Carrier Strike Group Ten. "Together with our Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen [we] remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice."

Approximately 3,000 Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen are participated in this year's Fleet Week New York. Fleet Week has been New York City's celebration of the sea services since 1984. It is an 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 capabilities of today's maritime services.

For more news from USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd7/.