Story Number: NNS090911-20
Release Date: 9/11/2009 4:41:00 PM

By Mass Communciation Specialist 1st Class Corey Lewis, Pre-Commissioning Unit New York

AVONDALE, La. (NNS) — The crew of Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) New York (LPD 21) honored those who lost their lives Sept. 11, during a ceremony that included a timeline from the events of 9/11 narrated by members of the crew.

“Strength forged through sacrifice. Never Forget” is the motto of PCU New York.

Quotes from survivors, first responders and voicemail messages of victims who were able to say final goodbyes were interspersed throughout the timeline to bring the story to life.

“The events of 9/11 happened to real people on a typical workday,” said Lt. Cmdr. Laura Bender, command chaplain. “Hearing their words connects us with them in a unique and powerful way. What would we have said if we had to make that last call home?”

James Bennett, crew member of USS New York (BB-34) from 1935-1940 visited the crew and took part in the ceremony. Bennett will be 94 years old the day of the ship’s commissioning Nov. 7. He toured some of the ship with his family afterward.

“It’s a wonderful ship,” Bennett said. “I feel a strong connection to the crew. Being a member of BB-34 and watching this ship progress has been a wonderful thing, and I am waiting for this ship and crew to begin their mission.”

Ceremony participant Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Winette Cox said, “I was honored to participate in the ceremony. It was an emotional yet touching event. I think the ceremony drove home why we are working so hard to get the ship ready to do her job.”

For more news from Pre-Commissioning Unit New York (LPD 21), visit www.navy.mil/local/lpd21.

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