A family walks down the pathway toward the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier at Patriots Point, surrounded by American flags and calm waters.
A family walks down the pathway toward the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier at Patriots Point, surrounded by American flags and calm waters.
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USS Laffey Association to Hold Annual Memorial Service Aboard Beloved Navy Destroyer

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On Tuesday, September 27th at 10:30 a.m., veterans of the USS Laffey Association will host a memorial service onboard the USS LAFFEY to remember the 32 sailors who died while serving aboard the warship during a fierce attack on April 16, 1945 off the coast of Okinawa, Japan.  The service will also honor the Laffey veterans who have died in the past year.

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USS Laffey after sustaining heavy damage during an attack off Okinawa on April 16, 1945.[/caption]

 

“The USS Laffey is an integral part of our museum and we always welcome the ship’s veterans to come visit her.” said Patriots Point Executive Director Mac Burdette.  “The brave veterans who fought so valiantly under heavy fire by the Japanese on April 16, 1945 and paid the ultimate sacrifice must always be remembered, as must all veterans of the USS Laffey who have served our nation.”

The memorial service is part of several days of events planned for the annual USS Laffey Association Reunion.  Laffey veterans from all eras, including at least one World War II veteran, are expected to be in attendance. A Sumner-class destroyer, the USS Laffey DD-724 has been a part of Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum since 1981.  The USS Laffey was in service for the U.S. Navy from 1944-1975.  The memorial service will be included in the regular price of admission for non-reunion attendees.  It is open to the public. Parking is $5.