SAN FRANCISCO - More than 1,800 Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen assigned to units within the region, as well as Sailors from the Royal Canadian Navy, arrived in the Bay Area in support of the 38th annual San Francisco Fleet Week.

Fleet Week is a tradition in several cities across the U.S. that helps to raise public awareness of the role that sea services play in national prosperity and security as well as an opportunity to engage with local communities.

The week-long tribute to the sea services is taking place from Oct. 1-8 and includes participation from amphibious assault ship USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6), Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Manchester (LCS 14), the Sentinel-class Coast Guard cutter Forrest Rednour, and Royal Canadian Navy ship HMCS Vancouver (FFH 331).

Throughout the week, Sailors will have an opportunity to engage with the local community in a series of service projects to include feeding the homeless, visiting hospitals and volunteering at local food banks.

“On behalf of Vice Adm. Alexander, commander U.S. 3rd Fleet and the fine crews of Expeditionary Strike Group 3, I want to extend my warmest welcome to citizens and community leaders in San Francisco,” said Rear Adm. Cedric Pringle, commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 3. “This is a great opportunity to showcase our Sailors, ships, equipment and capabilities. I’m grateful for the unmatched hospitality, friendship and support you show to all services every single day.”

The event is free to the public and offers a chance to learn more about Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen and what they do. Opportunities include the annual Blue Angels air show and parade of ships. In addition, there will be statics displays, public ship tours, Battle of the Bands in Golden Gate Park, K-9 demonstrations, and much more.

“I look forward to sharing practices and knowledge with city leadership and first responders throughout the week,” said Pringle. “When you see service members walking around in uniform, please make sure to give them and smile and say thank you and I’m sure they will do the same.