The Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park had a special surprise for parade-goers at the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade on Sunday — a 22-foot replica of the USS The Sullivans. 

Aside from her Irish name, which honors the five Sullivan brothers killed in action in World War II, the vessel has a lot to celebrate this St. Patrick's Day. 

"We were able to announce that money has been pledged to send the ship to a dry dock," said Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park director of programs Courtney Speckman. "And there has been a lot more attention made to the Sullivans, especially in the last few years, to help preserve it."

The hope is to send The Sullivans and the USS Croaker to dry dock in October. 

The Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park opens for its 46th season on Saturday, March 22.