Fleet Week returns to New York City after one year's absence

NEW YORK - Three US Navy ships and two US Coast Guard cutters arrive in the New York Harbor Wednesday to participate in the 2014 Fleet Week New York Parade of Ships after one year's absence, according to Fleet Week New York Public Affairs Office.

The annual celebration of America's sea services was not held last year because of federal budget cuts that hampered spending by the US Navy. The Fleet Week is said to cost the Navy several million dollars for various fees incurred.

Participating ships include the Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51), Arleigh Burke-class destroyers USS Cole (DDG 67 and USS McFaul (DDG 74), and US Coast Guard cutters Campbell (WMEC 909) and Katherine Walker (WLM 552).

Nearly 1,500 Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen are participating Fleet Week this year, down from the several thousand in past years when more ships came in.

Fleet Week events include ship tours, parades and aerial demonstrations.

Fleet Week New York, now in its 26th year, is the city's time- honored celebration of the sea services. It is an opportunity for the citizens and tourists to meet sailors, marines and coast guardsmen, as well as witness firsthand the latest capabilities of today's US maritime services.

This year's Fleet Week will run through May 27.