Thousands of servicemen and women sail into town for the annual Fleet Week. NY1's Jeanine Ramirez was there as the festivities got underway.
With the Statue of Liberty as a backdrop, powerful Naval fleets sailing into New York Harbor provided a stunning scene — this is the parade of ships — the kickoff to Fleet Week. Spectators lined the shores to catch a glimpse.
"My husband was in the Navy and his father was in the Navy so it was nice to come out with my friend Cindy to actually see the ships come in," said one woman.
"We just have to honor our military because we are free to do everything we want all day long and at night because they're out there protecting us," said another spectator.
Fourteen naval vessels dropped anchor in the city's waterways for the event bringing in some 4,500 sailors. Along with Marines and members of the Coast Guard, they will provide fleet tours and take in the sights of the city.
"The Statue of Liberty, I can't wait to go see it!" said one sailor.
"There's a lot of history here and I look forward to being part of the city and part of Fleet Week," said another.
"I'm looking to see a lot of the sites in the area and meet the people of New York," a third sailor said.
Three ships, including the USS Farragut and USS Bainbridge, are docked at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal in Red Hook. They were greeted with a welcome barbeque.
"This event is a true testament to the patriotic human spirit and to all those who have collectively come together to wave the flag," said one volunteer.
Volunteers traveled from all over the country to cook and set up this feast to honor the sailors.
"We are here to serve those who serve," said another volunteer. "To give back a bit to say thank you."
"They put their lives on the line for us every day and we don't forget that," said a third. "That's why we're here."
Other ships are docked in Manhattan and Staten Island. For more information on tours and other Fleet Week activities visit the website fleetweeknewyork.com.