Former USS Edson crewmembers welcome their ship.
ESSEXVILLE -- It was a breathtaking sight, drawing hundreds of people to Essexville.
The USS Edson's three-week journey from Philadelphia to its destination in Bangor Township has been 15 years in the making.
Those who coordinated the move describe this day simply. "Nerve-wracking," said Mike Kegley of the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum. "I didn't get much sleep last night. My brain wouldn't shut off."
For those who served on her, their home was the Edson. Her arrival drawing former servicemen from near and far.
"Last five days I've been constantly watching online. Came up yesterday found out she wasn't here so I jumped back in the truck this morning and came out just to see her being pull in," said Randall Fruit.
Former USS Edson crewman, Brad Apley, flew from Vancouver, Washington. "This was worth every penny I spent."
All of this bringing back memories made while onboard the Edson.
"This was a major part of my life for years. This ship was so good when I went in. It was the reason I stayed in the Navy. [I] Spent twenty years in the navy," said former Edson crewman, John Shaffer.
Crewmembers and community members are happy that the Edson will make Bangor Township her new home.
"I used to dream about this ship and I didn't want to see her scuttled or sank. I'm grateful that Michigan and Bay City latched onto her," says former Edson crewman Darrel Carlson.
The USS Edson will become a floating museum for the public.
