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VIDEO: Check out the inside of the USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul

May 20, 2022 11:45AM ● By Content Editor
Photo: WDIO News

By WDIO News Staff - WDIO News - May 19, 2022

The USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul will soon be in the service of the U.S. Navy. But before the commissioning, we got to check out the military combat ship.

It's fast and agile, and can even move side to side. Some of its missions could be anti-narcotics, anti-piracy, and even man overboard. She's designed to work closer to shore.

Commander Alfonza White, the Commanding Officer, described the voyage here, "It was wonderful. If you've ever been out on Lake Superior, it is awesome. Coming through the locks, was a great experience for the crew."

On board, the executive officer, Commander Bryan Kemmitz, told us he's from Birchwood, Wisconsin. He'd been to Duluth when he was growing up. He was surprised and excited to find out the commissioning would be here.

"Being able to represent the state of Wisconsin, the Twin Cities, and this area, creates a lot of pride for me," Kemmitz said.

There are about 100 crew on board. Leaders said they've been building this team for about two years, and they are the best.

"If I can compare it to the small town mentality of the Midwest, we kind of embody that on the crew," explained Command Senior Chief Edward Pare, the Command Senior Enlisted Leader.

Commissioning will signal the official entry into the U.S. Navy. It's happening Saturday at 10am.

The window to get tickets has closed. But the Navy will live stream the ceremony at: www.dvidshub.net/webcast/28516

Her homeport is Mayport, Florida. Some of the crews' families are in town, for the big ceremony.


Related: Watch the USS Minneapolis Saint Paul arriving in Duluth 


To see the original report follow this link to the WDIO News website. 

Boreal Ship Spotter - larger view here