The Fleet Week parade of ships was a somewhat more subdued affair this year relative to the recent past, perhaps a reflection of a navy that has been very busy offshore. There was no flattop LHD this year, but we did get Amphibious Transport Dock USS New York and Landing Ship Dock USS Oak Hill. There was also no NATO frigates in attendance this year, with Canadian Offshore Patrol Ship Rolette representing the alliance. Charleston-based Coast Guard Cutter Calhoun returned as well.

Also this year, the visiting ships did not venture up the North River beyond the cruise terminal, perhaps a function of bad weather or the heavy ebb tide, though the local vessels did come up as far as the Upper West Side. Oak Hill did not come up the river at all but instead headed straight for the Homeport Pier in Stapleton.

Of course we appreciate whatever we get and look forward to seeing the sailors and marines around town.