Navy marks 200th anniversary of
first squadron arrival in Gibraltar
By Scott Schonauer,
Rota bureau
NAVAL STATION ROTA, Spain — The Navy is getting ready for two big parties in Rota
and Gibraltar.
The U.S. Navy will commemorate the 200th anniversary of its first squadron in Gibraltar
this weekend as personnel in Rota prepare for a six-day Fourth of July party marathon.
Sailors will honor the Navy's long-standing relationship with Gibraltar — its
first overseas base — with a public concert, parade and plaque unveiling. A concert
by the Sixth Fleet Band on Friday will kick off the festivities.
The Navy has visited Gibraltar, a British territory located on the southern tip of
Spain, since the early 19th century. It remains a popular port-of-call for many ships with
the U.S. Sixth Fleet deployed to the Mediterranean.
"It’s been a great liberty port for 200 years," said Capt. Chris
Melhuish, the U.S. Navy liaison in Gibraltar.
Rear Adm. Charles Munns, commander of Submarine Group 8, will speak at the event. He
also will present a plaque at the American War Memorial 200 years to the minute when the
first U.S. squadron anchored in Gibraltar and fired its gun salute.
On July 1, 1801, the USS President carried the squadron to the port.
Two Navy warships also will participate in the commemoration.
North of Gibraltar in Spain, organizers in Rota are preparing for their own celebration
— a Fourth of July bash. This year, organizers have extended the annual celebration
by two days, making it the largest ever at the naval station.
The event begins with a 5K run on Friday at 11 a.m. The schedule includes a Fourth of
July parade on Saturday, carnival rides, and performances by local bands.
The base has printed 20,000 guest passes for relatives and friends of personnel on
base.
The Fourth of July event is one of the largest social events of the year at the naval
station. Organizers expect 30,000 people to attend.
Back to June stories
Page Two news roundup
Stories from May, 2001
Stories from April, 2001
Stories from March, 2001
Stories from February,2001
Stories from January, 2001
Stories from December, 2000
Stories from November, 2000
Stories from October, 2000
Stories from August and September, 2000
Stories from June and July, 2000
Home |
