The Seven Isles Homeowners Association was recently honored to participate in the commissioning of the US Navy’s newest warship, the USS Fort Lauderdale on July 30, 2022, in Port Everglades. HOA executive board members Bob Lietz, Vice President, and Debbie Fitzgerald, Treasurer, joined nearly 4,000 military family members and invited guests to honor the entry of the 684 foot long San Antonio-class warship into active service. (See photo.)
The USS Fort Lauderdale can carry 350 sailors, 650 Marines, and a collection of state-of-the-art military vehicles, landing craft as well as assorted hovercrafts, helicopters and aircraft. (See photo.) It is the first ship to be named after our City, and it is expected to be in action for at least 40 years, according to the US Navy.
Among several dignitaries attending the commissioning was City of Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis. He was quoted as saying, “This ceremony is a momentous occasion, not just for the military, but for the almost 200,000 people who call Ft Lauderdale home.” (Source: Sun Sentinel)
HOA officers Debbie Fitzgerald and Bob Lietz noted that the ceremony was very moving. “We were able to board and tour the warship after the commissioning, “ noted Fitzgerald. “It was amazing.”
Seven Isles HOA Officers Debbie Fitzgerald, Treasurer (left) and Bob Lietz, Vice President (right) attend the commissioning of the USS Fort Lauderdale on July 30, 2022.
Invited guests were able to view an array of military cargo carried by the USS Fort Lauderdale.