The security was extremely high as you can see with the photos of soldiers with machine guns. There was a helicopter circling overhead and the Coast Guard was circling in the river with machine guns. There were also bomb sniffing dogs to inspect any vehicles that got close. I had to have a background check in order to be there as one of the media. The public is not allowed to get near the ship.
I was there with all of the newspapers, television stations and several reporters from magazines and other agencies from around the state. It was very cool! I felt like- 'Bridget Jones- serious news reporter!'- ha ha. My photos will be on the WWAY website! www.wwaytv3.com
The Hoggard High School Band played for the audience and several officials including State Senator Mike McIntyre and Mayor Bill Saffo spoke at the ceremony. The mayor gave the Captain, Mark Davis, the key to the city.
Senator Mike McIntyre posing with some members of the crew.
Captain Mark Davis
