Fleet Week New York, a time-honored tradition celebrating the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and Marine Corps, has set sail once again in 2024. This year’s festivities, themed “Fleet Week New York…Celebrating Those Who Serve,” kicked off on May 22nd with the grand Parade of Ships, marking the 36th annual celebration in the city.
The Parade of Ships, a spectacle not to be missed, featured two U.S. Navy ships, three U.S. Coast Guard vessels, and four U.S. Naval Academy Yard Patrol boats as they sailed into New York Harbor. The procession, which included the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) from Norfolk, Virginia and the Bay-class cutter USCGC Sturgeon Bay (WTGB-109), was visible along the Hudson River from Battery Park to just south of the George Washington Bridge.
This year’s Fleet Week also welcomed ships from NATO allies in Germany, further strengthening the international camaraderie and showcasing the diverse nature of the U.S. military. The celebration is expected to draw nearly 2,300 military personnel, who will engage with the community through various events and demonstrations. One of the highlights of Fleet Week is the opportunity for the public to tour the impressive ships.
From May 23rd to 27th, visitors can explore the USS Bataan (LHD 5) at Pier 88 South, the FGS Baden-Württemberg (F-222) and FGS Frankfurt am Main (A-1412) from Germany at Pier 90 North, and the U.S. Naval Academy YPs and USCGC Sturgeon Bay (WTGB-109) at the Intrepid Museum’s Pier 86. Staten Island’s Homeport Pier will host the USS Marinette (LCS 25), USCGC Calhoun (WMSL-759), and USCGC Katherine Walker (WLM-552) for public tours as well.
In addition to the ship tours, Fleet Week offers a variety of exciting events across the region, including free concerts and demonstrations in Times Square, Navy Dive Tank exhibitions, and search and rescue displays. The celebration culminates on Memorial Day, with a solemn service at the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument on Riverside Drive.
“Fleet Week is about celebrating those who serve and recognizing the unyielding strength of our Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard team,” said Rear Adm. Wesley McCall, Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic. “As we pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice during their service, we are reminded of the diverse and inclusive fighting force that is currently serving to protect national security and preserve our way of life.”
Whether you’re a history buff, a military enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience, Fleet Week New York 2024 promises to be a celebration of patriotism, community, and the brave men and women who serve our nation. So, set sail for the Big Apple and join in the festivities as we honor the U.S. Armed Forces and their enduring legacy.
