Laffey Celebration Set for April 13-15

Patriots Point plans a three-day celebration to officially welcome home the historic USS Laffey, the World War II gunship nearly sunk in battle and then nearly lost to saltwater erosion a few years ago.

Ninety crew members will be on hand for a series of events April 13 to April 15. The celebration of the ship's return from dry dock coincides with the  67th anniversary of the ship's battle at Okinawa when it was nearly sunk by kamikaze attack.

The ship returned from repairs in January and portions re-opened in March, but the multi-day event is a celebration of the ship and its crew.

“We are excited to host this series of events,” said Patriots Point Executive Director Mac Burdette. “Part of our mission at Patriots Point is to share the history of the men and women who served our country and to keep their stories alive."

Read more about the Laffey's restoration and return.

The public is invited and encouraged to attend these events to pay tribute USS Laffey is 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. 

Celebrate the Heroes: Friday, April 13,  7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The USS LAFFEY and Patriots Point pier will be bustling with activity as Patriots Point hosts a party to celebrate the LAFFEY’s return.  This event is free and open to the public and will feature live music and dancing on the pier, special tours of the ship and an opportunity to meet the men who served on the USS LAFFEY.  Food, beer, wine and soft drinks will be available for purchase.  Parking is $5.

Meet the Heroes: Saturday, April 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tour the USS LAFFEY and meet the men who served aboard ‘The Ship That Would Not Die.’  Veterans will be available to share their stories and sign autographs, as well as lead special tours through the ship.  This opportunity is free with regular Patriots Point admission.  Parking is $5.

Honor the Heroes Ceremony: Sunday, April 15, 1 p.m.
On April 15, 1945, the USS LAFFEY survived one of the most – if not the most – concentrated Kamikaze attacks on a single ship.  Commemorate the 67th anniversary of this historic attack during an event aboard the ship.  The ceremony will feature a performance by a US Marine Corps Band, special remarks from former crewmembers, and the laying of a commemorative wreath.  Admission is free between the hours of 12:30 to 2 p.m.  Parking is $5.