Official U.S. Navy website - Commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet

SEATTLE, Wash. – Sailors on board the U.S. Navy amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), and guided-missile destroyers USS Sampson (DDG 102) and USS Chafee (DDG 90) will begin to arrive Tuesday, Aug. 2 for the annual Seattle Seafair. Bonhomme Richard and Sampson will transit Elliot Bay and moor at Terminal 25 and 66 before 2 p.m. Chafee will arrive at Terminal 46 at 8 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 3.

The three Navy ships, along with three Royal Canadian Navy ships, and one U.S. Coast Guard vessel, will be in Seattle to celebrate the Seafair, a tradition in the Pacific Northwest since 1950. The vessels will be in the city through Aug.8 offering public tours and participating in the annual festivities.

The Seattle visit offers the public an opportunity to tour on board the ships and meet Sailors as they showcase the ship’s capabilities. It also gives citizens a chance to gain a better understanding of how the sea services support the Maritime Strategy and national defense of the United States.

The Fleet will participate in the Parade of Ships in Elliot Bay on Wednesday, Aug. 3 starting at approximately 1:45 pm. In commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of Naval Aviation, U.S. Navy and Coast Guard aircraft, as well as vintage military aircraft, will participate in a Parade of Flight overhead the Parade of Ships. Ships will be open for public tours Aug. 4 - 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Aug. 7 from noon to 3:30 p.m.

During the ships’ visit, media are encouraged to contact Public Affairs Officer Sheila Murray by telephone at (360) 340-5398 regarding access to the ship, to arrange interviews with Sailors native to the Seattle area, or to request other related information.

There will be an opportunity to interview key Navy Fleet Week and Seafair personnel on Aug. 3 at 3 p.m. on the rooftop of the Bell Harbor Conference Center at Pier 66 immediately following the Parade of Ships. Call Ms. Murray for more details and for access to the area.

All visitors and media require escort within the security perimeter at the pier and on board the ships at all times. Access to U.S. Navy ships must be arranged with Navy Public Affairs prior to arriving at the security checkpoint. Media should be prepared to present two forms of identification: one from their affiliation and one government-issued photo ID.