USS New York Arrives in NYC (VIDEO)

The USS New York, a U.S. Navy assault ship built with steel from the World Trade Center, is making its first visit to New York City. The ship was to sail up the Hudson River on Monday morning following a stirring 21-gun salute near Ground Zero.

"I think it's going to be awe-inspiring," Lt. Cmdr. Colette Murphy said.

Of the 361 crew members serving aboard the USS New York, about 13 percent are from the state of New York, which is higher than would usually be the norm, according to Murphy. There were several requests to serve aboard the ship, which will also be carrying approximately 250 Marines.

The ship will head to the George Washington Bridge, where it will then make a U-turn and head south to Pier 88, where it will dock. A commissioning ceremony will be held on Saturday.

The USS New York will stay in New York City through Veteran's Day and then travel to Norfolk, VA.

The ship measures 684 feet long and can hold up to 800 Marines. It had been scheduled to be built prior to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. About 12 months later, it was decided that the ship would bear the name New York to honor the city, state, and those civilians who lost their lives.

The USS New York is technically known as a San Antonio-class amphibious dock vessel. Four other vessels in that class are currently in service: the USS San Antonio, USS New Orleans, USS Mesa Verde and USS Green Bay. Four more are now under construction. Of those, two have been named in connection with the 9/11 attacks.

You can get the full story of the USS New York on the new DVD Hero Ships: USS New York.

USS NEW YORK (LPD-21) PUBLIC SHIP VISITS ...

She is now docked at Pier 88, on 12th Avenue at 48th Street, near the Intrepid Sea Air Space Museum, and will be open to the public free of charge during the following specific times and dates:

– Wednesday, November 4 – 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
– Thursday, November 5 – 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.
– Sunday, November 8 – 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
– Monday, November 9 – 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
– Tuesday, November 10 – 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
– Wednesday, November 11 – 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
(Dates and times are subject to change.)

NO LARGE PACKAGES OR BACKPACKS WILL BE PERMITTED.

Those who plan to go aboard the ship are advised to:
-- Arrive early as lines may be long, especially on Sunday, Nov. 8.
-- Enter at the West 46th Street and 12th Avenue entranceway.
-- Bring a photo ID.
-- Wear comfortable shoes.

Large packages or backpacks will not be allowed on board