In less than four minutes in a welcome before thousands of visitors on the Naval Weapons Station pier in Leonardo and across the nation on Live stream video, Middletown Mayor Tony Perry managed to express the pride of Middletown residents in the honor they feel at having the USS New Jersey (SSN-796) the most modern nuclear-powered cruise missile fast-attack submarine in the US Navy, commissioned within the township.
Perry highlighted the fact that the Naval Weapons Station Earle installation on which the ceremony was taking place has already stood the test of time and defense of the nation and its military. He noted that as mayor he feels a sense of pride in the ceremony in a community “that values service, sacrifice and an enduring legacy. “
The commissioning in Middletown is also a demonstration of the township’s connection to the sea, to national defense and the ideals of freedom and security, Perry noted, in also expressing pride and thanks in all veterans. Like the state, he said, Middletown stands as a symbol of resilience, strength and “an unbreakable bond with the men and women in uniform.”
At the same time, Mayor Perry also let the Captain, Executive Officer, Chief of the Boat and the entire crew know the township recognizes the “courage, dedication and fitness” of the crew, describing them as the “embodiment of nature’s value. “It is their excellence,” he told the crowd, that “enables all of us to sleep soundly at night.”
Yet the mayor also left the crew with the town’s conviction the crew will continue to carry forward what others have done before them, the proud name and traditions of the state for whom their boat is named as well as the township of Middletown.
He thanked everyone who made the New Jersey possible from the shipbuilders, technicians and engineers to the Commission committee and families of the military members who “have contributed to the noble service the crew and the boat are doing.”
Perry told the crew that while he recognized that their time visiting Middletown is brief, he wanted them all to know that going forward, they should know they are now part of the Middletown family and will always have the support, prayers and gratitude of their family here “whatever corner of the earth you sail .”
He reminded them once again that they are “the embodiment of proud traditions and our nation’s values. “It is your duty to carry it forward,” while at the same time added his conviction they will do that with honor and bravery as those before them have done.
In wishing the traditional “Fair Winds and Following Seas” to Middletown’s newest family, Mayor Perry said that the crew will always have their Middletown family thinking, praying and grateful for their service and sacrifice.
