BUFFALO, N.Y. — Crews continue to work to save World War II-era destroyer USS The Sullivans.

Mayor Byron Brown joined several officials to give an update Friday.

Divers have completed assessing the starboard side, plugging up 10 holes along the way.

They've now started on the port side and have plugged up two holes there so far.

Twenty-thousand gallons of water have been purged from the ship, and officials are beginning to plan how to get people inside the vessel safely.

As far as environmental impact goes, the hazardous materials have been decreasing inside the affected area and none have been found outside of it.

A full environmental plan will be given when the final water ejection plan is in place.

Forty key artifacts have been removed from the ship to date.

Mayor Brown says the work will cost millions, requiring federal and state assistance, but says the work is worth it.

"This is our heritage,” said Brown. “This is our history. And we owe it to those who have fought and died for our country and those who are still fighting for our country."

Mayor Brown says the state is already planning to help, but naval park CEO Paul Marzello says one of the best ways you can help is to donate.