French navy frigate La Fayette will visit Savannah
June 24-27, 2007. The La Fayette, named for the
French hero of the American Revolution the Marquis
de Lafayette, is the namesake frigate in the hi-tech La
Fayette class.

The ship is coming to Savannah in response to an
invitation from Mayor Otis Johnson and the Coastal
Heritage Society, and in recognition of the thousands
of French soldiers and sailors who fought here during
the Battle of Savannah on Oct. 9, 1779. The French
naval attaché from Washington will be here as well.
As it cruises up the Savannah River, La Fayette will
receive a cannon salute as it passes Old Fort Jackson
from a soldier wearing an historic French uniform like
those worn by French troops in the Battle of Savannah.
The Coastal Heritage Society is also working with local
heritage groups including the Sons of the Revolution,
Sons of the American Revolution, Daughters of the
American Revolution, Alliance Francaise, and the
Navy League to plan a ceremony for the crew at
Battlefield Park.