By Journalist 3rd Class Cynthia R. 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.