USS New York Visits The Hudson

Today, November 2, 2009, a new battleship sailed up the Hudson River. Its name: the USS New York, its purpose: to serve as a memorial for the victims of the horrendous 9/11 attacks. What makes this battleship special is that it is made out of the actual steel collected from the rubble of the World Trade Center.

Image via Gretnala.com

Many people gathered along the banks of the Hudson to remember those who had been lost. To watch it go, victims’ loved ones gathered in Manhattan.

Along with the USS Arlington and the USS Somerset, this ship holds a special meaning in the hearts off Americans. Although 9/11 was an atrocious tragedy, it brought our nation and people closer into one unified cause.

Originally though, this ship was planned to be built before September 11, 2001. Following the attacks, the idea to finish it with the steel from the World Trade Center was proposed and accepted. It was finished in early 2008, but has just reached New York for the first time since then.

The amphibious transport dock can carry more than one thousand people as well as Marine helicopters. When it will be put into service is not currently available to the public.