MOBILE, Ala. (WPMI) the United States Navy Ship, USS Samuel B Roberts, guided missile frigate arrived in Mobile Friday morning. More than 200 Sailors arrived in the 400 feet long ship to celebrate Mardi Gras in Mobile.
Davidson High School Marching Band, Davidson High School ROTC, the Azalea Trail maids, Alabama crewmates, and city officials all welcomed the ship and sailors, participating in the traditional Big Welcome Ceremony.
Chairman of the Navy Ship Visit Committee for the Mobile Mardi Gras Association Robert Edington stated, "The American Navy recognizes Mobile as one of the two best places it can be invited to. The other is fleet week in New York but Mardi Gras in Mobile is famous through out the entire Atlantic fleet."
The ship never made it to Mobile last year or in 2010 because of engine issues and natural disasters. Mobilians said they had to come out to welcome sailors and the ship because it is a rare site.
"It's not every day you see a navy ship pull into Mobile especially when we have a whole entourage waiting," said Lawrence Hargett.
Sailors said they are excited to join it to participate in all the Mardi Gras Festivities. You can catch them at the beginning of the Floral Parade at noon on Saturday, and at noon on Monday at the Kings Parade.
You can tour the ship for free starting Saturday.
