More than 400 Sailors, family, and friends gathered together on the pier next to the bow of amphibious transport dock USS New York (LPD 21) for a remembrance ceremony to commemorate the tragic events of Sept. 11th, 2001.

The ceremony included the presentation of a firefighting jacket from a 9/11 survivor, wreath laying, and a gift presentation by First Coast Fire and Emergency Services.

Master of Ceremonies, Senior Chief Boatswain's Mate Timothy Clark, opened the ceremony by sharing his gratitude to the crew and guests.

"Thank you all for joining us here today on the 15th anniversary of the attacks that took place on September 11th, 2001, and for your steadfast dedication to duty and your patriotism," said Clark. "I would like to thank you for helping us pay homage as we remember those who gave their lives as a result of these tragic events."

Lt. Dirk Caldwell, a Navy chaplain assigned to New York, then delivered the invocation.

"Fifteen years ago to the day and the hour, our nation came to a standstill," said Caldwell. "All across the country, Americans stood in awe and wonder, confusion and anxiety, and you heard us in our desperation cry out to you. As we gather around this mighty ship and stare at its bow stem on this day and in this hour, how can we not remember those tragic events and the lives of those who are no longer with us because of it? It is in honor of them that we pause for these next few minutes and remember them and pray for peace."

Following the invocation, New York's Commanding Officer Capt. Kenneth Coleman shared his remarks.

"We are joined throughout our nation in remembering the events of 9/11," said Coleman. "Here on board New York, though it's something we do everyday, because on this ship we carry the sacred steel from the World Trade Center in our hull and the lasting memory of the 9/11 victims -- civilians, police and firefighters."

Coleman continued to address the audience.

"As you hear their stories, take with you a renewed sense of dedication to our nation and to each other," he said. "Know that your service matters. Your efforts make a difference; you are what make our nation great and you are what will keep us strong, safe, and free. I am proud to serve with you on this great warship and floating memorial. Thank you for joining us today, and as we say on New York ... 'Never Forget.'"

New York's chief petty officer selectees, Chief (select) Damage Controlman Juan Garcia, Chief (select) Yeoman TaMeeka Breedlove and Chief (select) Hospital Corpsman Jesse Newton then commemorated the loss during the tragic events of 9/11 by reading short synopses of several of the fallen New York City Fire Department (FDNY) and New York City Police Department (NYPD) members from which each speaker drew personal inspiration.

The ceremony concluded with a 21-gun salute by the ship's honor guard and the sounding of Taps.

New York was constructed with 7 1/2 tons of steel from the World Trade Center forged into her bow, which inspired the ship's motto, "Strength forged through sacrifice ... Never forget."

Able to cruise at speeds in excess of 22 knots, the 684-foot ship is capable of embarking 360 Sailors and 800 Marines to support a variety of missions.

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