Sailors and Marines assigned to USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43), as well as Coast Guardsmen from Fort Wadsworth, received a standing ovation as they entered the Arrochar Friendship Club, a senior citizens center, during a community relations event in support of 2016 Fleet Week New York (FWNY), May 26.

Decked out in patriotic finery and surrounded by red, white and blue decorations, more than 150 seniors, some with tears in their eyes, smiling from ear to ear and waving flags, welcomed the 14 military members.

"This is always a treat for us. We've been hosting the service members for a few years now for Fleet Week," said Angie Gheraldi, a member of the club's decorating committee. "We decorate everything up real nice. This event is so special for us."

The seniors, who range in age from their late 50s to early 90s, rocked the dance floor and gave the service members quite a workout, grooving along to everything from Pitbull to Sinatra.

"It's really a life affirming event," said Coast Guard Cmdr. Heather Mattern, who returned for third year in a row. "Their energy and love for the services keeps me coming back every year."

Many of the center's members are veterans and were excited to welcome the military members and share stories about their service, and how times have changed.

"This is such an important event for us. We see the stories on the news and we pray for these young men and women," said Army veteran Bob Dunets. "Seeing them in person is a blessing, and for some, a really emotional moment of joy. It brings in a fresh sense of life."

Machinery Repairman 2nd Class Sanique Konneh, who helped the seniors burn up the dance floor, said she connected immediately with the seniors and felt like she was with long lost friends.

"One word to describe my experience would be 'amazing.' It was more than I could ever imagine," said Konneh. "I met the most loving, warm and energetic senior citizens who encouraged me about the Navy, thanked me for my service, and encouraged my soul. I would not give up my experience for the whole world."

World War II veteran Frank Grande Sr., who served with the Air Corps, 5th Air Force, 33rd Fighter Control, showed off his ball cap to the Marines and said he carried a special place in his heart for them.

"It is always wonderful to see all of the services, but for me, especially the Marines," he said. "They saved our hides more than a few times during the war and I will always be grateful."

Grande was not the only Marine fan. Many of the women at the center had moments too, lining the Marines up to take group photos and selfies.

"It is very flattering," said Private 1st Class Evan Taylor. "The appreciation they have shown is truly amazing. I am so thankful to be a part of this Fleet Week event."

As the group departed, Fort McHenry Chaplain Charles Noles thanked the group for the wonderful experience.

"We are thankful for the opportunity and privilege to personally thank the veterans, their families and friends," he said. "We are profoundly grateful for their service, sacrifices and support. It is an honor to carry on their legacy."

FWNY, now in its 28th year, is the city's time-honored celebration of the sea services. It is an unparalleled opportunity for the citizens of New York and the surrounding tri-state area to meet Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, as well as witness firsthand the latest capabilities of today's maritime services. The weeklong celebration has been held nearly every year since 1984.

For up-to-date information on all FWNY events, visit the official FWNY website at www.fleetweeknewyork.com, "Like" FleetWeekNewYork on Facebook, or "Follow" @FleetWeekNYC on Twitter. FWNY photos can be viewed on Flickr at www.flickr.com/photos/fwnypao and Instagram at www.instagram.com/fleetweeknyc. Join the conversation on social media by using #FleetWeekNYC.


For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Commander, Navy Region Mid Atlantic, visit www.navy.mil/.