By Journalist 3rd Class Cynthia R. Smith, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific
SEATTLE (NNS) -- Seattle residents and distinguished visitors welcomed the U.S. Navy, Marines and Coast Guard as they arrived in a Parade of Ships Aug. 3 to participate in the 55th Annual Seattle Seafair Festival.
Seafair is Seattle's monthlong traditional summer festival of parades, air shows, boat racing and ship visits. Visiting Sailors and Coast Guardsmen will participate in various recreational, community and special events throughout their weeklong port visit here.
“The Parade of Ships is important because people of Seattle get to see the cloth of the nation, the great young men and women who keep freedom possible,” said Rear Adm. Leendert R. Hering Sr., commander, Navy Region Northwest.
More than 1000 guests were invited aboard USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), USS Ogden (LPD 5), USS Crommelin (FFG 37) and USCGC Active (WMEH 618) to experience the Navy and Coast Guard firsthand as the ships pulled into Seattle.
“Seafair is a great opportunity to present the Navy and its Sailors to people of the Pacific Northwest and the city of Seattle,” said Capt. J. Scott Jones, commanding officer of Bonhomme Richard. “It's also our way to thank the people of the region for their outstanding support.”
For the Sailors aboard Bonhomme Richard, Ogden and Crommelin, Seafair is a chance to share with Seattle what today’s naval service is all about and also to experience the area’s cultural attractions.
“It is a good opportunity for the community to understand what we do on a daily basis. Plus, it is a great morale booster for the crew,” said Sonar Technician (Surface) 3rd Class (SW) Josh Stolle, a Crommelin crew member.
“I have really enjoyed this today,” said Roseanne Garrett, of Renton, Wash., a guest aboard Ogden. “I feel like I am part of the ship. They have all been so nice and have all been very respectful towards us. It really has been fun.”