On Sunday, April 7th, the Naval Historical Foundation (NHF) hosted a festive event aboard the USS Midway Museum in beautiful San Diego harbor. Over 40 members and friends of the Foundation gathered on the historic aircraft carrier to catch up with old friends and learn more about the latest developments at the Foundation. Guests were welcomed by Midway CEO, Rear Admiral Mac McLaughlin USN(Ret.) and were greeted by NHF President Rear Admiral John Mitchell USN(Ret.), who welcomed southern California members and guests and provided an overview of the Foundation’s latest activities. After the public opening of the Cold War Gallery last October with the benefit of many generous donations from members, NHF will unveil a new exhibit in the Cold War Gallery on June 15th on the 40th anniversary of the homecoming of POWS from the Vietnam War. This event will take place at the Annual Members Meeting. Also, this summer, the Foundation’s successful STEM-H summer teacher education program is being transported to Groton, CT, the first time that it will be offered at a location outside the Washington Navy Yard.
As guests gathered on the hangar deck, Admiral Mitchell had the honor of presenting the Foundation’s Heritage Speaker Program award to our youngest participant, William Whittenbury, (above, with Admiral Mitchell) a high-school student at Palos Verdes Peninsula High School, for his work on the naval history of the War of 1812 and his general enthusiasm and interest in naval history. The event was a special occasion to get together with members that we don’t see that often, but who faithfully maintain their ties and interest in naval history through support of the Foundation. We plan to host similar member events in other locations such as Norfolk, VA, and Jacksonville, FL, over the next couple of years.
Bill Maddox