For the dozens of folks who didn't get a ticket to Saturday's commissioning ceremony, they gathered on the east bank side of the Pascagoula River to take part in the celebration. Many of the spectators believe they had the best seat in the house.
Groups of excited South Mississippians trekked to the Pascagoula Riverfront with their lawn chairs, and American flags to watch history in the making.
"I want to see the new submarine being commissioned," A spectator said.
"I am honored to be part of it," Pascagoula resident Joette Kuhn said.
Jim Baker took his excitement a step further by suiting up in special gear for the occasion.
"I am wearing the uniform of confederate colonel, and I am just taking pride in southern heritage and the commissioning of this USS Mississippi over here."
Although the crowd was not as large as anticipated on the east bank of the Pascagoula River, an enormous amount of honor and patriotism could still be felt as these folks watched the ceremony.
"It brings tears to your eyes. It makes you feel proud to be an American. So proud of our military and everybody that has served and given their lives for us so we can have our freedom," said Jackson County resident Monica Pace.
All the pomp and circumstance seemed to have many mesmerized. Some folks even pulled out their cameras to capture an image of the new Navy vessel and her crew.
"I hear by place the United States Ship Mississippi in commission, may God Bless," said U.S. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus over the loud speaker.
With those words, spectators bid farewell and safe travels to the more than 100 sailors aboard this USS Mississippi Submarine.
"I feel tremendous amount of tears and emotion. It is almost impossible not cry, it is just beautiful," Jackson County Resident Withee Brabston said. "It is a beautiful event and I am so glad I was able to witness it."
Visitors also received complementary USS Mississippi posters, flags, and water for attending Saturday's celebration.
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