Thousands of Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen from U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard and international navy ships will participate in Fleet Week NYC this week.

Seven ships sailed up the Hudson River this morning to moorings in Manhattan and Staten Island. All, ships paid honor to the world trade center site by calling  for a hand salute of all sailors topside as the ships passed the site.

Hosted every year Memorial Day week, Fleet Week New York is the City's celebration of the sea services. This annual event also provides an opportunity for the citizens of New York City and the surrounding Tri-State area to meet Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, as well as witness first hand the latest capabilities of today's Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard Team.

Fleet Week includes dozens of military demonstrations and displays throughout the week, as well as public visitation of many of the participating ships.

 Additionally, last year 95,000 guests enjoyed visiting the ships, meeting their crews, and learning about their technology.

In addition to Fleet Week activities planned citywide, the Mayor also kicked off the City's 2nd Annual Fleet Week Job, Education and Information Fair for military veterans and service members. 

"Hosting the 20th Anniversary of Fleet Week is an opportunity for our City to show its longstanding support and gratitude to our service men and women throughout the world," said Mayor Bloomberg. "Throughout our history, our nation has relied on men and women in uniform to courageously defend our freedoms, and our way of life.

That's why we want to ensure that when our service members come back home we welcome them - not just with words and medals - but with opportunities. We hope that our returning veterans will choose to follow their dreams right here in New York City."

To the 3,000 Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsman participating in Fleet week in NYC welcome to the Big Apple and thank you for your brave service. Enjoy experiencing all the sights and sounds and hospitality of "the city that never sleeps" Have a Great Week!

For more information about events, tours, schedules,photos and participating ships and aircrafts check the official website:  fleetweek.navy.mil

photo: New York (May 28, 2006) - Air Traffic Controller 3rd Class Claudia Rowe and Cryptologic Technician Technical Seaman from USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) enjoy their free time sightseeing near Times Square during Fleet Week New York. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Gabriela Hurtado: Sailors in Time Square 2006 photo courtesy fleetweek.navy.mil