JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- We now know the name of the warship that will serve as the hardcourt for two college basketball powerhouses in Jacksonville. It will also give the city a preview of Mayport's future fleet.
The city said the USS Bataan amphibious carrier will serve as the backdrop for the 2012 Navy-Marine Corps Classic basketball game between Florida and Georgetown in November.
The USS Mesa Verde and USS Carter Hall will also be in Jacksonville for the game.
"The USS Bataan and crew will find much more than a game in Jacksonville," said Mayor Alvin Brown. "This is a well-earned chance for our city to embrace the national spotlight to show appreciation to the brave men and women who defend our country."
"This is a unique opportunity the Navy and Marine Corps team, and to join together to honor our veterans and active-duty military," said Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus. "This event reaffirms the Navy's long-term partnership with the City of Jacksonville and the surrounding community.
The Bataan ARG represents the types of ships that will call Mayport home, starting in the last quarter of 2013, along with the USS New York. The USS Iwo Jima and USS Fort McHenry will be homeported at Mayport starting in 2014.
The moves will bring an additional 2,000 sailors and their families to Northeast Florida.
Click here for more information about the USS Bataan.
Click here for more information about the USS Mesa Verde.
Click here for more information about the USS Carter Hall.
