Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum will celebrate the return of the USS LAFFEY with a series of events April 13 – 15. The public is invited to attend to pay tribute to ‘The Ship That Would Not Die’ – the most decorated WWII-era destroyer still in existence. Ninety former crewmembers, including several who served during WWII, will be present for this special weekend of programs and events.
The events mark the sixty-seventh anniversary of the year that LAFFEY was operating off the Okinawan coast in WWII, when 22 Japanese bombers and kamikaze aircraft attacked her, killing 31 and wounding 71 of her 336-man crew. The brave crew of the LAFFEY shot down 11 attacking aircraft, saving the damaged ship and earning her the nickname “The Ship That Would Not Die.” She was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation and five battle stars for service during World War II.
These events are open to the public:
Celebrate The Heroes
Friday, April 13, 7:00p.m.-10:00p.m.
Live music on the pier from The Flashbacks, ship tours, meet USS LAFFEY veterans, food & beer, wine, soft drinks available.
Admission is FREE, food & beverages available for sale. Parking is $5 per vehicle.
Meet The Heroes
Saturday, April 14, 10:00a.m - 3:00p.m.
Tour the USS LAFFEY, meet men who served aboard "The Ship That Would Not Die," hear their stories, and even get their autographs.
Admission is included with the purchase of a regular Patriots Point ticket. Parking is $5 per vehicle.
Honor The Heroes Ceremony
Sunday, April 15, 1:00p.m.
Commemorate the 67th Anniversary of the 1945 Japanese attack on USS LAFFEY. The US Marine Corps Band will perform, followed by special remarks and laying of the commemorative wreath.
Admission is FREE between 12:30p.m. - 2:00p.m. Parking is $5 per vehicle.
We look forward to seeing you at Patriots Point!