Fil-Ams join Fleet Week in NY
by Lenn Almadin-Thornhill, ABS-CBN North America News Bureau | 05/25/2009 11:10 AM
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Some Filipino-American servicemen are now in New York City taking part in the week-long celebration of Fleet Week.
“I just want to walk around, visit the Statue of Liberty, the World Trade Center and Jollibee cause we don’t have that in Illinois,” said Czarina Gallardo from Steger, Illinois, a sailor of USS Iwo Jima.
The event provided a chance for many Filipino-American sailors to visit the Big Apple.
Another USS Iwo Jima sailor, Cliff Saludez from Delano, California, added, “It’s actually my first time here. So I’m looking forward to doing anything.”
“This is actually my first time, so whatever I see, I’m happy for it,” said Lizabeth Roces of Queens, New York.
Since 1984, New York City has held Fleet Week around Memorial Day to honor the US Navy and the Marines.
The Fleet Week which began last Wednesday, May 20, not only features different military demonstrations. It also gives the public a chance to tour some of the visiting ships.
Approximately 3,000 sailors, marines and coast guardsmen from the US Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard are in New York City until May 27.
Affected by recession
Fleet Week, however, was not spared from the recession.
In previous years, dozens of warships from different nations took part in Fleet Week.
This year’s lineup is the smallest ever with only 13 vessels, including three US warships and five Canadian vessels.
According to the US Navy, it is saving money and trying to reduce costs.
Fleet Week ends after the Memorial Day Commemoration on Monday. More than 2,500 veterans are expected to attend the ceremonies.
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