Whidbey Island Arrives in Boston for Sail Boston 2017
16 June 2017
CNRMA Public Affairs -- The amphibious dock landing ship USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41) arrived in Boston Harbor June 15 prior to the kick off of Sail Boston 2017.
Whidbey Island's participation in Sail Boston provides an opportunity for the citizens of Boston and the surrounding area to meet service members and witness the latest capabilities of today's maritime services.
"I'm excited that Whidbey Island, one of the oldest conventional warships in the fleet, is one of the main attractions of Sail Boston," said Whidbey Island Commanding Officer Cmdr. Ethan Rule. "Team 41 has been preparing for this, and is ready and excited to show off one of the most versatile and capable warships the Navy has to offer."
The Whidbey Island Crew and embarked Marines from the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force will be participating in a myriad of events around the city throughout the week. Highlights including an over 200-person Patriot Run through Boston alongside Boston Police, sporting events, school visits, and the Sail Boston Parade of Sail viewing from the ship.
At the same time Whidbey Island will be hosting thousands of visitors who will be able to transit through the ship, speak to Sailors and Marines, and get a first-hand look at the Navy and Marine Corps team's capabilities.
"The crew is very excited, not just for the tours to show what we do and how we do it, but for a chance to visit Boston and interact with the locals," said Whidbey Island Command Master Chief Brett Menne. "It's rare that we get to pull into port in our own country. Most of our port calls are in foreign countries on deployment, so it's great to have this opportunity to experience Boston like this."
Sail Boston 2017 is the official host of a five-day maritime festival from June 17-22 bringing more than 50 Tall Ships to Boston Harbor.
For more information on Whidbey Island and Sail Boston 2017 follow www.facebook.com/usswhidbeyisland and www.facebook.com/cnrma.pao or visit www.cnic.navy.mil/cnrma or www.sailboston.com.