As America begins its covert battles against terrorism, an old warrior is coming proudly out into the light.

The USS New Jersey is finally set to unlock its doors for the public - really, honestly this time - on Monday.

After all the controversies and troubles that have delayed this opening, the timing for it, by this terrible accident of history, couldn't have been better.

The "Big J" is going on display right when Americans will most want to see how a fighting ship works, and when people most need the assurance that America's technology is and long has been second to none.

But most of all, "Big J" enters our lives when we need to be reminded of the sacrifice and fighting spirit that allowed this nation to survive other times and other crises - World War II, Korea and Vietnam.

Now berthed behind the Tweeter Center, it's already a grand sight - 887 feet, 6-5/8 inches, of guns, gray steel and fighting capability, with Mark 7 guns that fired 2,700- pound armor-piercing shells and 1,900-pound high-capacity shore bombardment projectiles.

It's the granddaddy to the ships and submarines now firing on Taliban strongholds in Afghanistan, and the ribbon will be cut for it on Monday at 8:30 a.m. Members of the public can start climbing aboard at 9 a.m. - to reflect upon old battles as we enter into new ones.

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