SEATTLE - The amphibious transport dock ship USS Somerset (LPD 25) and guided-mission destroyer USS Momsen (DDG 92) arrived in Seattle, July 31, for Seafair as part of the annual festival's Fleet Week.

A summer tradition in the Pacific Northwest since 1950, Seafair Fleet Week will also include the Royal Canadian Navy ships HMCS Yellowknife and HMCS Whitehorse, and the U.S. Coast Guard high endurance cutter Mellon.

The Seattle visit offers the public an opportunity to take a tour of the ships and meet Sailors, Coast Guard members and Marines as they showcase the ships' capabilities. It also gives the public a chance to gain a better understanding of how the sea services support the national defense of the United States and freedom of the seas.

The ships on Pier 90 will be open for public visitation Wednesday, August 1 from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.; Thursday, August 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; Friday, August 3 from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.; Saturday, August 4 from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. and then Sunday, August 5 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Times for tours may vary from day-to-day.

When arriving for public tours, all visitors will be required to present a photo ID and pass through an airport-style security screening checkpoint prior to boarding the ships. All visitors are subject to search prior to entering the security zone. Visitors are encouraged to bring as few items as possible when arriving for their tour, and are recommended to wear flat-heeled, closed-toe shoes.

Prohibited items on board include the following:

• Large bags, including backpacks, diaper bags and large camera bags (small camera bags and small handbags may be permitted, but will be subject to search)
• Weapons, including knives, firearms and club weapons
• Defensive chemicals or sprays, including mace and pepper spray; spray cans of any type
• Fireworks, flammable liquids or other explosives
• Federally illegal drugs and/or drug-related paraphernalia
• Strollers