PORTLAND, Ore. – Sailors assigned to the submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) were greeted by members of the Navy League of the United States, Portland Council, during a welcome party at the Multnomah Athletic Club in Portland, Oregon for the kick-off of Rose Festival Fleet Week, June 7.
Throughout the week, Sailors will have an opportunity to enjoy premier events of the festival including the Grand Floral Parade, live music, food, entertainment and a sports competition among ships.
“We are proud to be part of this year’s Fleet Week,” said Capt. Jeff Farah, Frank Cable's commanding officer. “Since our arrival, the citizens of Portland have welcomed us with open arms. We are delighted to participate in the Rose Festival events and show the pride we have in our Navy and our country.”
Frank Cable has been in Portland since April for a scheduled dry-dock maintenance availability. “We are honored to have been embraced and welcomed as part of the Portland community,” said Farah.
Frank Cable and visiting ships, guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) and littoral combat ship USS Jackson (LCS 6), U.S. Coast Guard cutters Alert (WMEC 630), and Bluebell (WLI 313), along with Her Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Edmonton (MM703) and Brandon (MM710), are participating in the festival.
The visit offers the public an opportunity to take a tour of the ships and meet Sailors and Coast Guard members as they showcase the ships' capabilities. It also gives the public a chance to gain a better understanding of how the sea services support the national defense of the United States and freedom of the seas.
"It is my first time visiting this city, and I am very excited to participate in all the festivities going on this week," said Machinist's Mate (Nuclear) 1st Class Kristy Tjhin. "I can't wait to show the community our support, see a new city and learn about the city's rich history."
Navy warships have been coming to the City of Roses since USS Charleston's visit in 1907 and are considered a highlight of the festival.