State and local leaders joined together with World War II veterans Friday afternoon to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the arrival of the USS Massachusetts to Fall River.

Governor Charlie Baker joined city officials at Battleship Cove to pay tribute to those who served during the war and those who served on the historic battleship.

Mayor Sam Sutter says the historic park is a major attraction for the Spindle City, bringing in thousands of visitors each year.

The battleship brings more people to our city than any other attraction within our borders. People from around the world can interact with history by walking along the deck and marveling at the overwhelming size of the weaponry and hearing the stories of the men who served on this ship," Sutter said.

It was a community effort to bring the battleship to its current home under the Braga Bridge and current admission costs go toward continuous restoration efforts.

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