CLEVELAND RESIDENT RYAN HARRIS, who also is a former Cleveland Daily Banner staff writer and WOOP FM radio personality, is pictured here on board the USS Michael Murphy warship in New York. Harris is third from the right. Submitted Photo
FORMER CLEVELAND DAILY BANNER reporter Ryan Harris is pictured here with Cleveland resident Glenn Bartcher at the recent commissioning of the USS Michael Murphy warship in New York. Submitted Photo
Harris, now a cryptologist for the United States Navy, was on board in New York Harbor when the USS Michael Murphy was commissioned. The 510-foot warship, often praised for its sleek appearance and $1.1 billion price tag, was named in honor of the 29-year-old Murphy, a Navy SEAL who was tragically killed while fighting in Afghanistan.
Harris was one of 300 sailors who marched up the ship’s ramp as “Anchors Aweigh” was played for the gathered crowd.
“It was an honor to be a part of something that meant so much to our nation and to those who knew and loved Lt. Murphy,” Harris said. “His parents were there for the ceremony which made it even more memorable.”
Harris said he will be stationed on the warship through 2015 and will be based in Hawaii. While he looks forward to the scenic locale, he misses his friends in Cleveland.
“I enjoyed every day I spent in Cleveland and will always carry the city in my heart,” he said. “I regret that I am going to miss the Christmas Parade, but I will read about them in the Banner’s online edition!”
