NEW YORK STATE FAIR -- In past years, the sand sculpture at the New York State Fair depicted whimsical themes. This year, it's a bit deeper as the sand has been molded into the image of the future USS New York.

"Normally, ships are not named for states or cities of this class. But at the request of Governor Pataki and then followed up by Mayor Bloomberg, this ship was named by the secretary of the Navy as the USS New York," said Bob Ravitz, Civilian Commission Committee Head.

The ship was designated this special name after 9-11. Along with the title, 7.5 tons of steel salvaged from the World Trade Center site was built into the bow.

"That's where the ship actually touches the water. It's literally leading us through the water. So that steel from the World Trade Center is leading us on our mission wherever we go," said USS New York Captain Curt James.

The USS New York will be commissioned in New York City on November 7th. Shortly after, it will begin its mission to transport Marines to wherever they need to go. Despite the tragic reminder, all of the crew members say they'll live by the ship's motto: Strength forged through sacrifice. Never forget.

"With the World Trade Center steel on it, it is very palpable. The first time I touched it, every hair on my body stood on end. You know it's there. You know it every minute, you live it, breathe it," James said.

"It's truly an honor to be here. After the events of 9-11, it's been my dream to come board a ship and serve my nation," said USS New York PS3 Woodson Parker.

"I don't think anybody on it takes it as a burden. We accept it for what it is and we're excited to bring it to life," said USS New York CTT3 Richard Doucette.

And as the name indicates, crews here would like to remind everyone that the USS New York will represent all New Yorkers.

Along with the USS New York, two other ships have been named after the 9-11 tragedies: The USS Somerset County for Pennsylvania and the USS Arlington after the Pentagon.