As formal invitations and directions are being received in the mail and excitement mounting for the commissioning of the USS New Jersey (SSN-796) on September 14, the Submarine Commissioning Committee has announced the possibility early risers might get a glimpse of the submarine as she comes to Leonardo Friday morning. September 6.
Commission Chaiman Peter Engelman issued notice this week that the New Jersey will be coming into the Leonardo pier on Friday, September 6 in preparation for the ceremony at 11 a.m. September 14.
Engelman said the best viewing spot would be from North Beach at Sandy Hook’s Gateway National Recreation Area.
He suggested parking at Parking Lot M on Sandy Hook at 8:30 a.m. and walking the approximate mile on the trial to North Beach.
Engelman said the sub should come within 100 yards of that beach.
Spectators should recognize that a submarine is generally no higher than 25 to 30 feet above the water line. Binoculars could be a help.
Viewers along the waterfront in Belford would be further distant but might also be able to see the boat as it most likely would find the Hook close to the edge of the channel before heading into one of the piers at the Navy facility.
It is estimated the boat might be passing around 9:30 a.m., Engelman said.
On the day of Commissioning, only those persons with official guest tickets will be eligible to be on Earle for the ceremony. Guests will pass through a security checkpoint and must have a federal or state issue photo identification for base access. Military identification, a driver’s license or passport would be sufficient.
The checkpoint will include metal detectors, bag inspections and military working dogs; bags must be no larger than small diaper bags, purses or small folding umbrellas. All are subject to search for weapons including knives or sharp pointed objects of any type.
Base access will open at 7 a.m. to ensure a smooth security process and ample time for seating in advance of the ceremony, so guests are urged to arrive early. Parking passes have been issued for parking site information and further instructions.
For all those unable to attend the ceremony, it will be livestreamed and can be viewed on line at
www.dvidshub.net/webcast/33459.
The link will open at 10:45 a.m. September 14.
For further information on the Commissioning or updates on the ceremony, visit https://njcommissioning.org
