The Chicago Navy Week 2012 portion of the commemoration of the bicentennial of the War of 1812 officially kicked off Aug. 13 with a noon performance by the Navy Band Midwest Brass Quintet in downtown Chicago.
According to organizers, the War of 1812 event is a salute to all Sailors and Marines who fought in the conflict, those who served in all of our nation’s conflicts since then and those who serve today. Chicago Navy Week 2012 is an opportunity for Sailors and Marines to engage the public and raise awareness of the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and the role the services play in the defense of the nation and maritime security.
“I look forward to our Navy and Marine Corps team visiting this region to commemorate the bicentennial of the War of 1812, and showcase our ships as well as our men and women who are on watch 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, keeping our sea lanes open and protecting our way of life,” said Commander Carrier Strike Group Two Rear Adm. Gregory Nosal.
Two U.S. Navy ships, USS Hurricane (PC 3) and USS De Wert (FFG 45), two Canadian ships HMCS Moncton (MM 708) and HMCS Summerside (MM 711), and the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Biscayne Bay (WTGB 104) will moor in and around Navy Pier in Chicago for the commemoration.
There will be activities throughout the week including: ships that will be open for public visiting, official visits from regional dignitaries and Navy leadership, as well as community service projects. The 2012 Chicago Air and Water Show, which will feature performances by the Blue Angels will serve to wrap up the commemoration in Chicago.
“The Great Lakes region is as important to our Navy today as it was 200 years ago,” said Nosal. “Milwaukee, Chicago, Toledo, Cleveland, Detroit and Buffalo are some of the many cities in the region that continue to inspire and support our maritime forces.”
Today, as it was 200 years ago, the majority of the world’s population lives near the seas and depends on goods being shipped from around the world. The seven-day celebration of the sea services is scheduled to conclude Aug. 20.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, August 15, 2012