An achievement 100 years in the making. Subase New London kicked off a week of celebrations marking their 100th birthday on Tuesday.
A 19-gun salute helped mark the naval submarine base and the naval submarine school centennial.
"We followed an extraordinary legacy of boldness and courage," said Cpt. Paul Whitescarver.
The base holds more than 10,000 servicemen and woman on any given day, according to naval officials. With a large population local business owners say the base helps with staying afloat.
"We're glad that they're here. Without the navy Groton would be in trouble," said Nautilus Barber Shop owner Joe Quaratella.
"So if you look at 2014 we had $7 billion impact to the surrounding area," said Cpt. Whitescarver.
Even with all that cash, no money is needed this activity-filled week, according to sailors. Free concerts, exhibits, and baseball games are being offered to those inside and outside the fence.
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"I have not been in a base, in my 36-year-career years, that a community has just embraced the base," said Cpt. Whitescarver.
A list of events can be found here http://www.ctsubmarinecentury.com/
