NAVY ACCEPTS COLLINS’ REQUEST FOR PORT VISIT TO SEARSPORT

WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Navy officials today confirmed that a port visit has been scheduled for Searsport, Maine in conjunction with the "Fling Into Fall Festival" October 2 - 6. Senator Collins, who is a Member of the Senate Armed Services Seapower Subcommittee, recently contacted the Navy requesting that a ship be sent to Searsport for this event. She called such a visit "enormously significant" to the festival.

"This is excellent news and I am pleased that the Navy has agreed to play a vital role in an event that is very important to the Searsport community," said Senator Collins.

The Senator explained that each year, the Fling Into Fall Festival in Searsport attracts hundreds of visitors from around the region and state. In the past, a Navy ship has not been able to attend the festivals. Senator Collins added, "This ship visit will help build a bridge between the dedication of those who serve in the US Navy and the respect of those citizens whom they protect."

The ship that will visit the port is the USS Thomas S. Gates (CG-51).