Houston's Inaugural Fleet Week: A Warm Welcome

It's April 18th.

This is El Paso News today, powered by AI.

Houston just launched its first fleet week, running April 15th through 22nd, at the

port of Houston.

Several ships pulled in carrying more than 1,000 sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen.

This marks the inaugural event for any Texas City, tying into America's 250th anniversary

celebrations.

The crews got a big welcome with cheering mascots and an opening ceremony outside City Hall

on Wednesday afternoon.

Local service members, some station overseas like in Japan, lit up talking about breathing

that fresh Texas air again and raising the flag back, home.

Mayor John Whitmeyer spotlighted Houston's deep military links through the port, refineries,

and NASA partnerships.

Residents turned out strong, sharing family military stories from World War II to today,

and stressing support for those serving amid Middle East.

Tensions

This week, the teens will fan out across the city for public meetups, ceremonies, exhibits,

concerts, and family reunions with folks traveling from, near and far.

Everyone's feeling the vibe, with service members raving about the warm Houston embrace

as they gear up for an unforgettable run.