Staten Island Supports Service Members During Fleet Week New York

Staten Island Supports Service Members During Fleet Week New York:

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. (NNS) -- Manhattan may be the hub of Fleet Week, but Staten Island, N.Y., was full of activity as well May 29.

Sailors participating in the 'Adopt-a-Sailor' program waited at the former naval homeport on Staten Island for their 'adopter' to arrive.

A local firefighter and former Sailor adopted a group May 28 and took them to his home for a cookout that included the usual hamburgers, hotdogs and steaks. He had a bit of a surprise planned for the Sailors, though.

The firefighter invited friends and family to join the festivities and thank the Sailors for their service.

'It made me feel prouder to be in the service,' Petty Officer 2nd Class Jason Bentley said.

Bentley, assigned to USS Carr (FFG 52), said that support from the American people has really increased since Sept. 11, 2001. He said he sees it in the number of flags flying and especially in the 'Support the Troops' magnets found on many vehicles.

'Thank you for all your support,' he said. 'It doesn't go unnoticed.'