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USS Laffey

January 25, 2012 by · Comments Off on USS Laffey 

USS Laffey, Patriots Point Development Authority (PPDA) Executive Director Mac Burdette announced Tuesday that plans are moving forward to bring the USS Laffey home to her berth at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum on Wednesday, January 25.

The Laffey will begin her journey at approximately 7am Tuesday at Shipyard Creek in North Charleston, where she has been berthed since her complete hull overhaul in 2009. She is expected to pass under the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge at approximately 8am and will make her way to Patriots Point in time for high tide at 9:18am.

In November 2011, the PPDA Board approved a three-part project to return the USS Laffey to Patriots Point, relocate the USS Clamagore to a more accessible berth and upgrade/replace aging utilities.

On Sunday night, Stevens Towing and Salmon Dredging removed a 60-foot section of the pier to allow for the relocation of the submarine and destroyer. Following preparations throughout the day on Monday, the Clamagore eased from her berth and was towed to the Patriots Point South Pier, where she will undergo continued maintenance and restoration.

“The Laffey is such a great historic ship. We cannot wait for her to become an asset to our museum once again,” PPDA Executive Director Mac Burdette stated. “Some have asked, ‘Is it is worth it?’ The only answer I can give is: look at the faces of the Laffey crewmembers when they see her come under the Ravenel Bridge. These guys are heroes who continue to provide an example and inspiration for us all.”

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