USS New York Returns To NYC For Veterans Week
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The USS New York arrived in New York City on Friday afternoon to honor the service and sacrifices of all veterans for Veterans Week.
"This Veterans Week visit is a homecoming for us as well; we all consider ourselves to be New Yorkers, we all respect and cherish the connection we have with this amazing and resilient city," said Capt. Jon C. Kreitz, commanding officer of the ship.
USS New York Returns To NYC For Veterans Week
The ship is named for the victims, families and first responders of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center. It was made with more than seven tons of Word Trade Center steel and was commissioned into active service four years ago.
USS New York Returns To NYC For Veterans Week
"It's in the bow and it's throughout the ship and then there's some commemorative places it's actually on display on the ship as well," Rear Admiral Richard Snyder told WCBS 880's Jim Smith. "It's in the mind of the crew and everyone that steps forward on this ship. That's really one of the first questions they ask: 'so where's the steel?'"
"USS New York's motto, 'Strength forged through sacrifice. Never Forget,' says everything about why we are coming to honor the sacrifice of our nation's heroes -- we couldn't be more proud," Kreitz said.
USS New York is moored at Pier 88. Public visitation is scheduled for Saturday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. and Monday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Meanwhile, veterans are hoping Monday's parade up Fifth Avenue will bring a new understanding and appreciation of military service.
"There are so many different component parts of the veteran's community that need to be highlighted," said Vince McGowan, Chairman of the United War Veterans' Council.
America's Parade To Honor Service, Sacrifices Of Nation's Veterans
Beyond a showing of appreciation, WCBS 880's Paul Murnane reported this year's event is an opportunity to highlight the growing issues of health and employment for the nation's newest veterans.
America's Parade, which is the largest Veterans Day event in the city, has been held every year since 1919.
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