7-25-2024 3:14pm

Morristown Welcomes USS New Jersey Crew

Chris Connors Editor

The sailors of the soon-to-be-commissioned USS New Jersey explored Morristown's rich Revolutionary War history during their visit.

MORRISTOWN, N.J. - Morris County extended a warm welcome to the crew of the United States Ship New Jersey (SSN 796) as part of their tour through New Jersey, connecting with the state's rich naval history before the submarine's commissioning on September 14. The visit, which included stops at Morristown Green and Washington’s Headquarters, provided the crew—comprising four men and four women—an immersive experience into significant American Revolutionary sites.

The tour was hosted by Commissioner Director Christine Myers and Commissioner John Krickus, a U.S. Marine veteran, who detailed Morristown’s pivotal role in the American Revolution. The crew's journey began at Marotta Controls in Montville, followed by a lunch at Beenie’s Ice Cream in Morristown, before exploring the historic sites of the Morristown Green.

"We are honored to welcome the crew of the USS New Jersey to Morris County," said Director Myers. "Our county is home to so many sites of immense historical importance, and we are proud to share its legacy with the officers and crew who will soon serve on the USS New Jersey. We hope this visit highlights our deep appreciation for their service and connects them to the critical history they protect for our county."

“The USS New Jersey, the Navy’s newest Virginia-class attack submarine, follows in the footsteps of the proud Battleship New Jersey (BB 62) with her upcoming commissioning. I deeply appreciate all that this crew has already accomplished as they lay a foundation that will endure for the entire life of the boat -- from her first dive to her last trip to periscope depth,” said Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill, whose office coordinated the crew’s Morris County visit with the U.S. Navy. “Thank you to everyone in Morris County who welcomed the crew members visiting today -- Marotta Controls, Morristown National Historical Park, Beenie’s Ice Cream, Madison YMCA and Drew University, as well as local officials and members of our veterans community. And to the crew, thank you for visiting New Jersey -- fair winds and following seas!”

The crew paid homage to several key monuments, including the "The Alliance" statue, depicting the historic 1780 meeting of General George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and the Marquis de Lafayette. Additional stops included Jacob Arnold’s Tavern, the Patriots Farewell Statue, and the Civil War Monument, each providing a narrative of New Jersey’s considerable contributions to America’s military past.

"During the American Revolution, the Green was not only a military parade ground but also a hub for the community. General Washington himself drilled troops here and planned campaigns that were pivotal to our independence," said Commissioner Krickus, sharing the historical significance of the Green.

Washington's Headquarters Museum offered further insights, courtesy of Park Superintendent Tom Ross, into General Washington’s strategic use of Morristown during the harsh winter months of the Revolutionary War.

The crew's visit underscored the historical connection between New Jersey and its namesake naval vessels, tracing back to the first USS New Jersey launched in 1904 and including the celebrated battleship version commissioned in 1943, now a museum ship in Camden.

The visit not only celebrated the historical ties but also engaged with the local community, including a stop at Madison YMCA Summer Camps at Drew University and a meeting with Drew University President Hilary Link.

For more details on Morris County’s upcoming 250th Anniversary celebrations in 2026, interested parties are encouraged to reach out to the county alliance via email. This visit marks a significant prelude to the many historical commemorations planned for the area, highlighting the enduring spirit and heritage of Morris County.