Gravely arrives in Wilmington

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Navy’s newest destroyer Gravely has arrived at the State Port of Wilmington. The ship and its crew are in town for its commissioning Nov. 20.

The 509 foot long naval destroyer made it’s way down the Cape Fear River at noon. This is Wilmington’s second commissioning of a naval ship. Mayor Bill Saffo presented a key to the U.S.S. Gravely and it’s commanding officer. Those aboard the U.S.S. Gravely say they’ve been counting down the days to their arrival in Wilmington.

“I can’t even turn around or I might start crying,” said Command Master Chief, Mattie Wells. “Just seeing the battle flag flying and the crews standing tall showing respect for the city, it’s been awesome.”

The U.S.S. Gravely is the Navy’s newest addition to their destroyer fleet.

WWAY will have continuing coverage of the ship and its crew during their stay in Wilmington, including a special edition of WWAY NewsChannel 3 at 5:30 on Friday, Nov. 19, and live coverage of the commissioning ceremony from the port starting at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 20.