Sailors aboard the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Albany (SSN 753) participated in the 29th annual Fleet Week Port Everglades.

Fleet Week Port Everglades provides an opportunity for Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen to interact with citizens in South Florida, allowing them to witness first-hand the latest capabilities of today's maritime services and to gain a better understanding of how the sea services support the national defense of the United States.

“An important aspect of Fleet Week is allowing the public to see what we do, because typically we’re on scene, unseen, taking care of business,” said Cmdr. Mathias Vorachek, Albany’s commanding officer. “The public rarely gets a chance to see their tax payer dollars at work, so allowing them onboard the Albany is a great opportunity for them to see and learn about what we do.”

Albany’s Sailors enjoyed numerous activities throughout the week, including a welcoming ceremony held at Esplanade Park. Food trucks offered beverages and barbecue, and each ship’s crew had the chance to shout their “spirit call” in a friendly competition.

The following day, the submariners were invited to the Kiwanis Club of Wilton Manors where volunteers of the nonprofit organization prepared dinner and drinks for the crew. Outside, Sailors and Coast Guardsmen had the opportunity to interact with snakes, alligators and turtles.

The next night some of Albany’s crewmembers had the opportunity to watch a Miami Marlins game at Marlins Park.

In addition to these events, Albany Sailors also volunteered their time to better the local community.

“I think the biggest thing I gained from this week is the importance of community outreach,” said Vorachek. “The city has been so welcoming to my crew and we hope that our crew has made a positive impression on them in return.”

The Sailors volunteered at several places including a wildlife refuge and the Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale Museum where they aided in renovations and landscaping.

“We’re here as ambassadors of the submarine force out here,” said Master Chief Dustin Rushing, Albany’s chief of the boat. “We’re talking to people about what we do because the general public doesn’t really understand what we actually do.”

Rushing also said Fleet Week is good preparation for future deployments, allowing the crew to rehearse liberty policies and learn what they need to bring onboard the ship.

Albany recently departed the shipyard following a maintenance period, and will return to normal operations after Fleet Week.

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