Navy Yard Ready For Inspection

After 200 years, the public finally gets to see what’s going on “behind closed docks.” The Brooklyn Navy Yard will finally open for tourists next month. This 300-acre industrial park along the East River is located on Brooklyn’s north shore. It was the birthplace of many American naval ships throughout history. None perhaps was more famous than the ironclad USS Monitor which was built during the Civil War. Tour stops include several historic buildings and the actual dry dock where the USS Monitor was built. Tours begin November 2 and will be conducted every Sunday. Tickets are priced at $30 per person.

Civil War-rior Recognized

A Midwest researcher helps a long forgotten New Yorker. Roderick Connelly may now rest in peace and receive the respect he’s deserved for over 143 years. Once buried in an unmarked grave, an appropriate tombstone now honors his burial spot at Calvary Cemetery in Woodside, Queens. Connelly was among 3,300 courageous Union soldiers who attacked Fort Fisher on January 15, 1865. While many of his comrades were killed, wounded or fled, Connelly bravely remained behind and fought along with his unit until the Confederate troops surrendered. His actions earned him the Congressional Medal of Honor. An ordinary man who became a hero. America is blessed to have had people such as Mr. Connelly throughout our history. We're blessed that brave and patriotic men and women still rise from among us today.