The Port of Los Angeles is set to transform into a spectacular celebration of maritime prowess and military tradition as LA Fleet Week 2024 kicks off this Memorial Day weekend. One of the marquee attractions this year is the awe-inspiring USS Carl Vinson, a Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, which has sailed from San Diego to the bustling harbor of San Pedro.
The festivities officially launched on Wednesday, May 22, with LA city officials and military dignitaries gathering aboard the USS Carl Vinson. Among the notable figures present was Captain Matthew Thomas, the commanding officer of the vessel. “On behalf of the 3,000 men and women who serve aboard this ship, I’d like to extend my personal gratitude for welcoming us so warmly,” Capt. Thomas remarked, underscoring the significance of the event.
From May 24 through May 27, Fleet Week will feature an extensive lineup of activities designed to engage the public and honor the nation’s Sea Services. Public tours of the USS Carl Vinson, alongside the Coast Guard cutter Terrell Horne, are expected to be a major draw.
Jonathan Williams, president and CEO of the Battleship Iowa and head planner of LA Fleet Week, highlighted the event’s extensive impact. “LA Fleet Week impacts over 250,000 people through more than 100 different community service projects, activities, seminars, displays and band performances,” Williams said. “It’s an opportunity to connect the community with our nation’s military and the role in safeguarding freedom of the seas, the lifeblood of our international economy.”
The schedule is packed with a wide range of engaging activities, including military displays, equipment demonstrations, and a riveting aircraft flyover. There’s also an array of musical performances by military bands like the 1st Marine Division Band and Navy Band Southwest, bringing patriotic tunes to various locations around Los Angeles. For those with a culinary interest, the “Galley Wars” cook-off competition will see teams from different military branches and first responders competing to showcase their cooking skills.
The celebration isn’t confined to the waterfront. Neighborhood activations are planned across Los Angeles, including welcome parties in Downtown San Pedro and Wilmington. These events, which run from May 23 through May 25, aim to extend the Fleet Week spirit throughout the city, fostering community engagement and appreciation for the service members.
Capt. Matthew Thomas encouraged the public to take part in the festivities. “My sailors and I have been looking forward to this opportunity to meet Angelenos at various events and neighborhoods throughout the greater LA area and we invite you to come down this weekend to visit USS Carl Vinson. Our city is grateful for the sacrifice that you are making as well,” he said. “I encourage everyone to take a moment to interact with our visiting service members and express your gratitude for their service.”
Relevant articles:
– L.A. Fleet Week: Aboard The USS Vinson , KTLA Los Angeles, 05/23/2024
– LA officials, military leaders kick off 9th annual LA Fleet Week aboard USS Carl Vinson, Daily Breeze, 05/23/2024
– LA Fleet Week Returns with Arrival of Carl Vinson, DVIDS, 05/22/2024
– Fleet Week 2024 sails into the LA Waterfront with ship tours, live music, and galley fun, NBC Los Angeles, 05/21/2024
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