A New Chapter of Naval Pride: The USS Cleveland Arrives in Ohio
After years of anticipation, the city of Cleveland is preparing for a momentous occasion. The USS Cleveland (LCS-31) is officially arriving in its namesake city, marking the start of an exhilarating week of celebrations that will culminate in its formal commissioning into the U.S. Navy.
This event is more than just a military ceremony; it is a historic milestone, as it marks the first time a U.S. warship will be commissioned within the state of Ohio. For residents and naval enthusiasts alike, it is a chance to witness strength, heritage, and community spirit converge on the shores of Lake Erie.
Welcome the USS Cleveland: Arrival Schedule
The USS Cleveland will make its grand entrance into the Port of Cleveland on Saturday around 11 a.m. Before docking, the ship will be greeted by color guard events at several strategic locations along the west shore of Lake Erie. If you want to be part of the welcome party, here is where you can gather:
- n
- Vermilion: Main Street Beach at 8:45 a.m.
- Avon Lake: Veterans Memorial Park at 9:45 a.m.
- Bay Village: Huntington Beach at 10 a.m.
- Rocky River: Bradstreet’s Landing at 10:15 a.m.
- Lakewood: Solstice Steps of Lakewood Park at 10:30 a.m.
- Cleveland: Edgewater Park at 10:40 a.m.
Community Day: Connecting Sailors and Citizens
To bridge the gap between the crew and the community, the USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation is hosting a festive, family-friendly Community Day. This free event is designed to let Northeast Ohio residents meet the sailors, explore the ship’s mission, and celebrate in true Cleveland fashion.
Event Details:
đź“… When: Sunday
đź•™ Time: 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
đź“Ť Where: North Coast Yard
The Main Event: The Official Commissioning Ceremony
The climax of the week occurs on Saturday, May 16, at 10 a.m. at the North Coast Yard, where the LCS-31 will be officially commissioned as the USS Cleveland.
In a stirring tradition, Robyn Modly—sponsor of the ship and wife of former U.S. Under Secretary of the Navy Thomas Modly—will deliver the iconic command: “Man our ship and bring her to life!” This signal will trigger the crew to rush aboard, the commissioning pennant will be raised, and the USS Cleveland will formally enter the active fleet.
Forge a Legacy: Symbolism and Specifications
The USS Cleveland is the 16th Freedom-class littoral combat vessel, a class of ships designed for agility and versatility in near-shore environments. Its motto, “Forge a Legacy,” is a powerful nod to Cleveland’s industrial roots and the resilience of its people.
The ship’s crest further honors this connection, featuring a red-striped anvil set against the city’s skyline, complemented by 16 rays of sunshine symbolizing its place in the Freedom-class lineage.
A Tradition of Valor: The Four USS Clevelands
LCS-31 is not the first to carry this prestigious name. It follows in the footsteps of three distinguished predecessors:
- The First (1903): A protected cruiser that served as the Atlantic Fleet flagship during World War I.
- The Second (1942): A light cruiser that saw intense combat across the Pacific during World War II.
- The Third (1967): An amphibious transport dock that served in the Vietnam War and both Gulf Wars, eventually being decommissioned in 2011.
With the arrival of the newest USS Cleveland, a new chapter of naval history begins, ensuring that the city’s legacy of strength continues to sail the world’s oceans.
