‘USS Arizona foundation reflects on summer initiatives, announces future plans’

Gilbert, AZ – The USS Arizona Legacy Foundation remains committed to its mission of celebrating naval heritage, educating future generations, supporting the crew of the USS Arizona submarine. With summer drawing to a close, the Foundation looks ahead to future plans guided by these core objectives.

Celebrating the USS Arizona submarine: The Foundation plans to celebrate the addition of the USS Arizona submarine to the Naval Fleet through a series of grand festivities, community events. These activities aim to foster a lasting bond between the submarine crew, the citizens of Arizona.

Educational initiatives: This month, Foundation representatives met with Gilbert’s Veterans Advisory Board to discuss educational programming collaboration. Planning for annual Pearl Harbor educational efforts, including classroom visits, presentations, is well underway. These initiatives ensure future generations understand the history, significance of Pearl Harbor, the USS Arizona battleship, the brave individuals who served.

Interested volunteers or schools can inquire about participation opportunities here.

Advisory Council insights: The USS Arizona Legacy Foundation’s Advisory Council oversees three committees: Events, Communications, Education, Heritage, Crew Support. At the Official Foundation Launch earlier this year, Jonathan Van Noy, a retired submariner, Arizona native, was recognized for his contributions. Van Noy emphasized the importance of supporting the submarine crew, their families to enhance morale, wartime effectiveness.

Honoring excellence in crest design: Highland High School student Elyse Hanson was honored as the first-place winner of the USS Arizona Legacy Foundation’s crest competition. Her design, selected from over 165 submissions, will inspire the official crest for the USS Arizona submarine. Vice Admiral Yancy Lindsey (USN Ret.) presented Elyse with her award during a back-to-school ceremony, highlighting the significance of her contribution.

Looking ahead: The Foundation reflects on the progress made, the dedication of the community. Support from volunteers, participation in educational initiatives, spreading the word are crucial to keeping the legacy of the USS Arizona vibrant. The Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to honoring the past, enriching the present, building a promising future.

For more information, to join the mission, visit www.ussarizonalegacy.org.

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