USS Farragut, commanded by Commander Megan A. Thomas, will be in town for Bristol Fourth of July celebration, and Bristol residents are invited to tour the ship. The ship's crew is expected to participate in the parade.

The Farragut is an Arleigh Burke Class guided missile destroyer fitted with the latest technology to fulfill any assigned offensive or defensive tasking. Commissioned on June 10, 2006, she is named in honor of the U.S. Navy’s first Admiral, David Glasgow Farragut, and is the fifth ship to bear his name.

Built by the General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, in Bath, Maine, the ship has a length of 509 feet, beam of 66 feet, draft of 31 feet and a displacement of 9,300 tons. Powered by four Marine Gas Turbine Engines, which generate an output of up to 100,000 horsepower, she is capable of speeds in excess of 30 knots.

Her weaponry includes: the Aegis Weapons System, 5-inch, 62 caliber gun mount, and various torpedo and missile launching systems. Farragut's combat system is the most technologically advanced in the world, capable of projecting power both on the sea and ashore with precision and lethal accuracy.

The ship will be open for tours for one day only - Monday, July 3, 3:30 - 7 p.m. Those interested will need to be at the US Coast Guard Pier at the foot of Constitution St. from 3-6:30 p.m. Visitors should bring a photo ID, wear comfortable clothing, and no high heel shoes. Handbags or packages of any kind are subject to search, as is any individual who is selected. Parking in the area of the USCG Station will be limited.