Battleship Wisconsin and The Hampton Roads Naval Museum: 10,00 Day War at Sea
Berthed at Nauticus on Norfolk’s waterfront, the Battleship Wisconsin, one of the largest and last battleships ever built by the U.S. Navy, has long been open to the public as one of the nation’s finest naval museums. For years reunions groups of all branches have walked her decks. A tour onboard will take you back in time to experience this majestic ship that earned five battle stars during WWII. Go below deck to explore previously sealed off areas of the Battleship, including the Captain’s cabin, Admiral’s cabin, Combat Engagement Center, Flag Bridge, navigation Bridge and Quartermaster’s space. This fascinating tour takes visitors seven decks down in the depths of the Battleship Wisconsin, where they’ll learn exactly what was required to power this massive City at Sea.
The Wisconsin is also open for military ceremonies, such as your group’s memorial ceremony. There is no cost to hold ceremonies on the ship, which is open for them Wednesday through Friday between 10am and 1pm.
Inside Nauticus, you’ll find many maritime exhibits and the main attraction for reunions, The Hampton Roads Naval Museum. The Naval Museum is located on level two and is owned and operated by the United States Navy. The museum houses a rich collection of authentic uniforms, weaponry, underwater artifacts, detailed ship models and artwork. If your group has been to Norfolk, chances are you’ve done this tour one or more times. So what’s new? This year, the museum opens a brand-new exhibit that will be a huge draw for all naval reunion groups, especially those that served in Vietnam. If your group has been to Norfolk a few times before and been on all the tours, this is something new your members would love to see. The Ten Thousand-Day War at Sea – The US Navy in Vietnam, 1950-1975 exhibit is now open to honor the sailors of Vietnam and the Navy’s contributions at sea, on land, and in the skies. Never before has there been such a dedicated effort to recognize and promote the legacy of the sailors in Vietnam.
AFR got our start bringing Navy ship reunions to our homeport of Norfolk, and for over 30 years we’ve guided groups to successful reunions here and /in over 150 cities nationwide. Get started on your next reunion in Norfolk by submitting your group’s information on BookMyReunion.com/visit-norfolk and our hotel partners that accept AFR’s Risk Free Military Reunion Hotel Contract for groups under 100 attendees will reach out directly to you in a couple of days. Is your group over 100 attendees? Give us a call today to learn about our full array of services!
Charley Dey | 757-625-6401 | charley@afri.com