Navy Kicks Off Week-Long Motor City Celebration

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Steve Johnson, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs

DETROIT (NNS) -- Detroit Navy Week 2011 officially kicked off July 18 bringing together residents and Sailors who provided an in-person account of the Navy's significance.

The Navy took advantage of its most important resource — people — sending Sailors from Michigan's namesake submarine USS Michigan (SSGN 727) and a Navy band among others, to various events around the city. Among these events was a visit to the John D. Dingell VA Medical Center near downtown Detroit where the Sailors toured the facility, and met with veterans and hospital staff.

"The veterans here are very excited the Navy is in town," said Rear Adm. John Jolliffe, vice commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command. "They feel the love and support. I think it's important that those who are on active duty not forget about the veterans who have gone before us."

Detroit natives stationed aboard USS George Washington (CVN 73) who were in town for Navy Week got a chance to tell their story on live TV. They also talked about the ship's recent exercise with the Royal Korean Navy, and humanitarian assistance Washington provided in the wake of Japan's devastating tsunami in March.

"I hope the people here in Michigan learn during the week how the Navy is a forward-deployed force that's fast and flexible," Jolliffe explained. "We're not only on the water in ships, under the water in submarines and over the water in aircraft to carry out our nation's maritime strategy. We also play a vital role supporting the war effort in Afghanistan, as well as providing humanitarian assistance around the world."

The Detroit City Council honored the Navy by declaring July 18-24 Detroit Navy Week. Councilman Andre L. Spivey presented a framed Detroit Navy Week proclamation to Jolliffe during the celebration, then put the spotlight on hometown Sailors from both USS Michigan and USS George Washington with "Spirit of Detroit" awards, honoring them for their Naval service.

Detroit Navy Week 2011 is one of 21 Navy Weeks being held across America this year. Navy Weeks are designed to showcase the investment Americans have made in their Navy as a global force for good and increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence.

For more information about Detroit Navy Week news and scheduled events, visit navyweek.org/Detroit2011.