March 4, 2011

GOV. MALLOY INVITES FOREIGN NAVIES TO OPSAIL 2012

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today sent letters to the Chiefs of Naval Operations of 27 countries inviting them to Operation Sail (OpSail) 2012 in Connecticut. Efforts by the Office of Military Affairs ensured that New London was added to the list of ports for OpSail 2012 and the Navy's commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812. Over 900,000 people visited the coastline city during OpSail 2000 and planning has begun to host even larger crowds in 2012.

"We welcome the navies of other countries and the tall ships from around the world to the port of New London and to Connecticut. We have a deep maritime history and OpSail is a great opportunity to celebrate our relationship with other countries and with the ocean itself," said Governor Malloy. "Southeastern Connecticut is a beautiful part of the state-it has a rich past and continues to be an economic driver-attracting tourists and sustaining the marine trade industries. We know that guests and visiting dignitaries will enjoy their time in New London and will want to return to see the many attractions Connecticut has to offer."

Like the four OpSails that have come before it aimed at fostering goodwill among nations, OpSail 2012 is organized around a major historical event. The first OpSail in 1964 was held in conjunction with the New York World's Fair. This year, the U.S. Navy will be commemorating the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 by bringing in warships that will join the tall ships and ships from allied navies on the Thames River.

OpSail will attract tourists and visitors from around the world, including crews from the tall ships and naval vessels, who will have days to explore New London and southeastern Connecticut, enjoying restaurants, shopping and other attractions.

OpSail 2012 is a joint event with the Navy and New London's annual Sailfest. It will take place July 6-8, 2012.

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For Immediate Release: March 4, 2011

Contact: Juliet Manalan

Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy