COLTS NECK – Want to witness an historic event happening right in your backyard?
The Monmouth County Board of Commissioners have announced their partnership with the USS New Jersey Commissioning Committee to support the USS New Jersey Commissioning Ceremony on April 6 at Naval Weapons Station Earle.
“We are honored the U.S. Navy and the USS New Jersey Commissioning Committee have chosen Monmouth County to support this exciting event,” Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone said.
A commissioning is a time-honored ceremony for vessels that are officially becoming part of the Naval fleet. After the vessel has completed rigorous testing and sea trials, the shipbuilder then deems the ship capable of performing her designed mission and prepared to join the fleet, the USS New Jersey Commissioning Committee said.
For all purposes of law and tradition, the vessel then becomes a United States Navy ship. According to the USS New Jersey Commissioning Committee, the Commanding Officer and crew come aboard and are entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining and operating their boat in peacetime and under conditions of war.
The USS New Jersey is a Pre-Commission Unit 796 Virginia-class submarine, which is the third naval vessel named after the state of New Jersey.
“The County Commissioners are proud to offer important programs and resources that truly support our military and veteran community and we look forward to offering these programs to those serving our country who will call Monmouth County home during their tours on the USS New Jersey,” said Commissioner Susan M. Kiley, liaison to the Office on Veteran Services.
Those looking to attend this historic ceremony will need to enter a ticket lottery, as there will be a limited number of tickets. To register, visit njcommissioning.org. The deadline to enter the lottery is January 14.
“In addition to supporting our military, this event will be a major support to our small businesses who will be offering goods and services to residents, visitors and service members before, during and after the Commissioning,” Director Arnone said.
