Photos: Exploring the USS Anchorage

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The USS Anchorage, a San-Antonio class amphibious transport ship, named for Anchorage, Alaska.

The USS Anchorage, a sleek gray ship built in Louisiana and previously docked in the naval hub of San Diego, pulled into port early Wednesday morning, kicking off several days of public and VIP events, culminating with the commissioning of the ship on Saturday. It's the first naval vessel ever commissioned in Alaska waters.

This current iteration of the USS Anchorage -- a San Antonio-class "amphibious transport dock ship" -- is the second naval vessel to go by that name. The first hit the water in 1968, and served for 35 years, including troop withdrawals following the Vietnam War. It was decommissioned in 2003.

As an amphibious transport dock, the USS Anchorage is capable of carrying both amphibious and airborne assets. It will host a crew of 360 sailors and three Marines -- and can transport another 700 troops.

READ MORE: Anchorage becomes Navy town overnight as sleek USS Anchorage docks