USS Spruance arrives in Key West for commissioning

KEY WEST, Fla. (AP) -- The Navy's newest destroyer, the USS Spruance, has arrived in Key West to prepare for its commissioning ceremony set for Oct. 1.

The nearly 510-foot long vessel docked Friday, welcomed by local pleasure and tourist boats with passengers tooting conch shells.

According to Navy officials, the Spruance is a multi-mission ship carrying Tomahawk cruise missiles, a 5-inch gun, sonar and two helicopters. It is capable of speeds in excess of 30 knots.

Two half-days of public tours are planned and some crewmembers are to participate in several community service projects.

Although Key West is steeped in Navy tradition, beginning as far back as 1822, officials say it is the first time a Naval vessel commissioning has been planned for the island city.

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