Navy Week Sets Sail for Galveston Adventure

Galveston is set to host its first Navy Week in over a decade, from October 21 to 27, 2024, coinciding with the Wings Over Houston Airshow featuring the Blue Angels. This event marks the Navy’s return to the city since 2008, aiming to highlight the significance of the Navy to Galveston, Texas, and the nation as a whole.

The event will see the participation of more than 75 Sailors in various education and community outreach activities throughout Galveston. Key Navy organizations participating include the U.S. Fleet Forces Band, the Navy History and Heritage Command, and the United States Ceremonial Guard, among others.

Rear Admiral Wayne Baze, a San Antonio native and senior executive for the Navy, will lead community engagement efforts during Galveston Navy Week. With a background in biology from Rice University and a lengthy career as a Naval Aviator, Baze expresses enthusiasm for forging connections with the local community and showcasing naval capabilities.

“I am honored to represent our Navy in Galveston and connect more with this historic port city,” said Baze. “During Galveston Navy Week, our teams will demonstrate important naval capabilities and support community organizations while building lasting relationships within the city. We are bringing talented, young Sailors who will proudly share with you why they serve and why your Navy is so critically important to our nation.”

Navy Weeks provide a platform for the Navy Office of Community Outreach to educate the American public about naval contributions to national security and prosperity. Since its inception in 2005, the program has reached millions, especially in regions without a prominent naval presence.

Various community events are planned throughout the week, including student engagement sessions at multiple high schools, volunteer work with local organizations like the Galveston County Food Bank and the Turtle Island Restoration, and participation in multiple parades. The Navy Week proclamation will happen at Saengerfest Park on October 23 at 11 a.m., with live music performances by the U.S. Fleet Forces Band scattered throughout the week.

Flagged as one of 15 Navy Weeks in 2024, the Galveston event seeks to bring naval assets, equipment, and personnel closer to the community, emphasizing the Navy’s role in safeguarding the nation.

Media interested in covering Galveston Navy Week events can reach out to John Hankemeier at (541) 844-9789 or via email at john.t.hankemeier.civ@us.navy.mil.