Spotlight: USS New York

Throughout July, Broadway Stages celebrates America, pride of place, and the important role New York plays in the character and culture of our great nation. This week we shine the spotlight on the USS New York, our city on the sea.

The U.S. Navy’s USS New York was commissioned Nov. 7, 2009, in New York City. An instrument of freedom and peace, she cuts through the water with a bow forged from 7.5 tons of World Trade Center steel, carrying much more than just the name of the Big Apple wherever it travels.

The USS New York is the 5th ship named after New York (dating back to 1776). She is 684 ft. long, 105 ft. beam (wide), and can carry nearly 400 Sailors and Marines at 22+ knots.

New York is represented proudly throughout the ship. There is a long wall decorated with Broadway show posters. A New York City subway map and subway signs are posted in common areas. The ramp to the well deck is covered with the logo of the New York Giants. And the longest and widest pathway on the ship has been dubbed Broadway. There is an official DOT sign that says ‘Broadway’ to make it official. But not all reminders are lighthearted.

Command Master Chief Petty Officer Ben Hodges said, “You can’t help when you walk around the ship to notice all the things meant to remind you of why you serve.” With the motto “Strength forged through sacrifice. Never forget,” the Sailors and Marines aboard are always reminded why they are on this city on the sea.

The testimony of the sacrifice and bravery of brave New Yorkers goes beyond the ship’s bow. Above the ramp on the way to the well deck sits a memorial crafted from a 1,000-pound piece of plate steel from the World Trade Center.

Patches from various New York police departments punctuate the hallways. Three uniforms worn by FDNY, NYPD and Port Authority members framed in glass (two showing the damage sustained during 9/11) are solemnly displayed. Finally, at 8:15 pm each night, the chaplain tells everyone about a person who died on 9/11. As he does, all aboard observe a moment of silence.

Broadway Stages is proud that the USS New York and those aboard are carrying our city’s name and spirit forward. No matter where the Sailors and Marines come from, they represent New York and are ambassadors of freedom and peace worldwide. God bless America!