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U.S.S. New York Returns To Her Namesake

NEW YORK (WCBS 880) - She rose like a phoenix from the ashes of the Twin Towers and now she's paying a visit.

WCBS 880's Mike Xirinachs In Manhattan

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The U.S.S. New York, which was built, in part, from seven tons of steel salvaged from the rubble of 9/11, sailed into New York City this morning, going up the Hudson River and docking on Manhattan's West Side.

Watching the U.S.S. New York pause as she passed the World Trade Center site in remembrance of the victims brought mixed emotions for firefighter wife Deborah Sheets.

"Proud and sad for the anniversary coming up and remembering a lot of the people we lost and that we knew," she told WCBS 880 reporter Mike Xirinachs. "The tribute, the sentiment, from those who serve on board is so inspiring. It's just a beautiful sight. She's beautiful, isn't she?"

Those gathering to view the majestic ship speak of pride and sadness.

For Bonnie Beran, it's personal.

"I don't think there's a family in New York that hasn't been touched. To some degree we're all survivors," she said. "I am incredibly moved, touched by all the steel in her bow, the strength it represents, particularly as she sits directly across from the site of the attacks and the uprising, the rising there."

She wiped tears from her eyes as she saluted the ship.

U.S.S. New York
The U.S.S. New York is seen docked on the West Side - New York, NY - Sep 8, 2011 (credit: Steve Scott / WCBS 880)

For Dan Gunderson, the feeling is powerful.

"It's a great feeling. It's a great feeling. We're still alive," he said. "That says it all."

How are you paying tribute to 9/11? Share your plans below in the comments section.

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