GALVESTON, TX, February 23, 2006 - The USS Trenton, a large U.S. Navy Amphibious Transport Dock Ship which carries military troops and helicopters, will dock in Galveston on Thursday, February 23, 2006 at 9:00am. The ship is making its way to Galveston just in time for the Mardi Gras celebration, and will be in Galveston from the 23rd until the 27th of February.

When loaded, the USS Trenton carries up to 1,000 Marines along with their vehicles, tanks, artillery, ammunition, and tracked landing vehicles. The ship has a large flight deck that can be used to launch helicopters, and is equivalent to the size of three tennis courts.

The USS Trenton will dock at Pier 21; at the North end of 21st and Harborside Drive. Tours of the ship will be available from noon until 3:00pm on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The tours are open to the public, and are free.

While visiting Galveston, the ship’s crew will participate in Mardi Gras activities including the Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade on Saturday, February 25th.

On Friday, February 24th the US Navy Band Mid-South “Freedom” will perform at 23rd and Strand at 8:45pm. The group is made up of 8 professional Navy musicians who specialize in today’s popular music.

For more information about the USS Trenton, contact Paula Brown, Public Relations Manager, Public Relations Manager at 409.797.5152.