Sailors and Marines man the rails aboard the USS Wasp.

NEW ORLEANS (Apr. 23, 2012) Sailors and Marines man the rails aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) while departing New Orleans after a six-day port visit for New OrleansNavy Week. New Orleans Navy Week was the kick-off place for the War of 1812 Bicentennial Commemoration. Nine ships from six nations hosted visits by more than 110,000 people at their berths along the east bank of the Mississippi River. The celebration of the sea services honored the men and women of the military through public events and recognition and also provided an opportunity to showcase the capabilities of surface platforms, equipment and the skills of the men and women serving aboard. The commemoration of the bicentennial of the War of 1812 is a salute to all Sailors and Marines who fought in that conflict, who have served in our nations's conflicts since then, and who are defending freedom around the world today. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Betsy Knapper) File# 120423-N-DU438-024