USS New York commissioned in shadow of midtown

[unhappycamper]

USS New York commissioned in shadow of midtown
By Verena Dobnik - The Associated Press
Posted : Saturday Nov 7, 2009 15:38:00 EST

NEW YORK — The USS New York, built with steel from the rubble of the World Trade Center, was put into service Saturday both as a symbol of healing and strength.

“No matter how many times you attack us, we always come back,” Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus said at the amphibious assault ship’s commissioning. “America always comes back. That’s what this ship represents.”

He spoke on a Manhattan pier where hundreds of Navy officers and sailors joined first responders and families of Sept. 11 victims for the ceremony.

“I hereby place the USS New York in commission,” Mabus announced.

And with a long drum roll, the ship’s crew was sent on its first watch, obeying the order, as traditionally worded: “Man our ship and bring her to life!” From atop the vessel, decked in red, white and blue bunting, black smoke rose into the chilly fall morning to signal that the USS New York was powered up. A loud cheer accompanied a flyover by Navy planes.


Rest of article about this $1.2 billion dollar wonder at: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2009/11/ap_navy_uss_new_york_commissioning_110709/