Destroyer to Drop Anchor Off Hermosa Beach in Rare Visit

When the destroyer Elliot drops anchor here Friday, local landlubbers can get a look at a working warship and sailors on shore liberty can check out the seaside community.

Making what Hermosa Beach officials say is the first “port call” by a Navy vessel to the city in more than 70 years, the Elliot will be welcomed during a 7 p.m. ceremony at the pier. A fireworks salute is scheduled for 8:30 p.m and can be watched from the beach.

The destroyer will stay at anchor about half a mile offshore throughout the weekend and will be clearly visible from the beach and the Strand.

Early risers will get a crack at an on-board tour of the Elliot on Saturday and Sunday via shuttle boats. Tickets, limited to 800 a day, will go on sale at the city’s Pier Plaza at 6 a.m. on a first-come, first-served basis. The price is $5 and must be paid in exact change. Each person in line may buy only two tickets. The boats will leave from the Redondo Beach Fishing Pier.

Mayor J.R. Reviczky, a Navy veteran, arranged for the visit with the help of Rep. Steven T. Kuykendall (R-Rancho Palos Verdes).