A Name That Reflects Our Reach

On January 1, 2026 Jacksonville Naval Museum and the Jacksonville Historic Naval Ship Association began operating under the name Florida Historic Naval Ship Association (FHNSA). This evolution better reflects who we are and the growing reach of our mission, to preserve and celebrate Florida's naval and maritime heritage, honor those who served, connect communities, and inspire future generations.

While the USS ORLECK proudly calls Jacksonville home, she has welcomed visitors from across the entire state of Florida — and far beyond. To date, guests from all 50 U.S. states and more than 45 countries have walked her decks. This statewide and global interest makes the new name a natural fit as we continue to share it with an ever-expanding audience.

"Stage Door" was the Tactical Voice Radio Call Sign assigned to the Orleck in Vietnam

that was used in inter-ship voice communications in place of the ship's name for security purposes. It was used at the tactical command level between ships, aircraft, spotters, and other friendly units, normally at short range. This Stage Door call sign is a direct link to the ship's history.

Welcome October, fair winds and following seas as we sail from a busy summer into an exciting fall aboard the mighty ORLECK!

As the season begins to shift along the St. Johns, the energy aboard the USS ORLECK continues to build. Thanks to your enthusiasm and support, 2026 remains on a strong course. Programs are expanding, projects are progressing, and who isn’t waiting with bated breath for the escape room? The ship continues to thrive as a vibrant place of learning, service, preservation, and community connection.

I want to take a moment to thank you for your unwavering support of the USS ORLECK and the Florida Historic Naval Ship Association. Your generosity, volunteer spirit, and belief in our mission power everything we do. From preservation efforts and educational outreach to special events, youth programming, and new exhibits, your involvement makes each success possible.

As we look ahead to the fall months, we do so with excitement and gratitude. New partnerships are taking shape, our youth and STEAM programming continues to grow, and more opportunities are being created to welcome our community aboard. There is a strong sense of momentum throughout the ship, and we are grateful to have you alongside us on this journey.

Here’s to a meaningful fall season and continued progress in the months ahead. Thank you for being part of this crew, united in purpose, pride, and service.

As always, please feel free to share ideas, stories, or content you’d like to see in future editions of Stage Door. I always enjoy hearing from you.

With appreciation,

Patti Bonelli

⚓ CLASSIFIED: CAN YOU CRACK THE ORLECK CODE?

A suspicious message has been discovered aboard USS ORLECK. We believe it contains a clue connected to the mysterious disappearance at the center of the mission.

Your assignment: Determine where the missing pin-up may be hidden.

NAVAL INTELLIGENCE NOTE

Sailors know that sometimes the most important information is found at the beginning.

Read the following shipboard report carefully:

Watchstanders reported nothing unusual.

All compartments were searched before lights out.

Rumors quickly spread throughout the ship.

During the midwatch, someone heard footsteps.

Records show one sailor left his station briefly.

Officers ordered another search at dawn.

Only one compartment remained unchecked.

Maybe that is where our missing lady is waiting.

WHERE SHOULD THE CREW SEARCH NEXT?

Think you cracked it?

Keep your answer classified, then check the answer at the end of the newsletter below to see if you broke the code.

Because soon, finding the location may be the easy part...

AMSAT Space Symposium Brings Satellite Enthusiasts to Jacksonville

Jacksonville will welcome amateur radio operators, satellite enthusiasts, engineers, educators, and space communications experts when the 44th AMSAT Space Symposium and Annual General Meeting comes to the city October 8 through 11, 2026.

The symposium will be held at the Wyndham Jacksonville Hotel & Conference Center and will feature technical presentations, organizational meetings, networking opportunities, and special activities for attendees and their families.

Technical sessions are expected to include updates on GOLF satellites, CubeSatSim, and Amateur Radio on the International Space Station, commonly known as ARISS. Participants will also have the opportunity to attend the AMSAT Annual General Meeting, awards presentations, the AMSAT Board Meeting, and an auction featuring amateur radio equipment and related items.

A banquet will provide additional opportunities for fellowship and networking, along with ham radio door prizes. Live streaming will also be available for those unable to attend in person.

The Jacksonville location offers convenient access for travelers, including a complimentary airport shuttle. A special spouse program and activities for accompanying guests are also planned.

On Sunday, attendees may choose from optional tours of the Jacksonville Zoo or the USS ORLECK Naval Museum. The ORLECK tour will provide symposium guests with an opportunity to explore an authentic historic destroyer while learning more about naval communications, technology, and the sailors who served aboard her.

Registration completed by September 8 includes a $20 discount. Hotel reservations may be made online or by calling 1-800-227-6963 and using group code AMS.

Run Up for Heroes Has a New Date!!!!!

The Run Up for Heroes 5K/10K, originally scheduled for October 10, 2026, has officially been rescheduled for Saturday, May 1, 2027.

The event will still take place at the USS ORLECK Naval Museum, bringing runners, walkers, veterans, families, and community supporters together to honor those who served while raising funds for Helping Hands for Heroes and its work supporting local veterans.

Previously registered participants will automatically have their registrations transferred to the new date. Race options, including the 5K, 10K, ruck events, youth registration, and virtual events, are expected to remain the same.

So hang up those running shoes for the winter, but don’t put them away!

NEW DATE: Saturday, May 1, 2027

USS ORLECK Naval Museum

FOLLOW RUN UP FOR HEROES FOR UPDATES:

https://www.instagram.com/runupforheroes/

Same mission. Same course. New date. Every step still honors a hero.

USS ORLECK Veterans Day Pilgrimage

The tradition continues! ORLECK sailors, family members, friends, and supporters are once again invited to gather aboard USS ORLECK DD-886 on Veterans Day for a meaningful day of remembrance, fellowship, and gratitude.

The annual gathering grew from the USS ORLECK DD-886 Association’s final official reunion, held aboard the ship in Jacksonville in 2022. Although that gathering marked the end of the Association’s formal reunion schedule, it did not end the bond shared by those who served aboard ORLECK, their families, friends, and those dedicated to preserving her legacy.

At that final reunion, the Association established what became known as the 11/11/11 Project, a simple but meaningful tradition: gather at 11:00 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month. The timing commemorates Veterans Day and recalls the moment the guns fell silent at the end of World War I.

This year marks the fourth Veterans Day gathering since the final official reunion.

While the date and traditional 11:00 a.m. gathering have been announced, the full 2026 Plan of the Day, RSVP information, and other event details have not yet been posted. Additional information is expected closer to Veterans Day.

The USS ORLECK’s survival is itself a remarkable chapter in naval preservation. After decades of service, decommissioning, uncertainty, and a long journey back to the United States, ORLECK found renewed purpose in Jacksonville as the centerpiece of the USS ORLECK Naval Museum. Her continued presence is a testament to the dedication of sailors, volunteers, veterans, families, and community supporters who refused to let her story fade.

On Veterans Day, we gather not only to remember the past, but to celebrate the ship’s future as a living museum, a place of education, and a continuing home for those who carry her legacy.

Please join us aboard the USS ORLECK DD-886 on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. as we honor our veterans, our ship, and all who helped make her continued service possible.

Two Events, One Mission: Honoring Those Who Served

On Saturday, November 14, 2026 Downtown Jacksonville will be filled with athletes, veterans and supporters on November 14 as two special events celebrating service and community come together near the USS ORLECK Naval Museum.

The K9s For Warriors Armed Forces Tri-Bridge Challenge will bring runners and walkers across Jacksonville’s downtown bridges in support of K9s For Warriors and its mission of helping veterans through highly trained service dogs.

Joining the celebration this year is VELO for Vets, a 35-mile charity bicycle ride benefiting Jacksonville Area Legal Aid’s Shelter for Elders Endowment – Veterans Initiative. The initiative provides legal assistance to help elderly veterans facing foreclosure, eviction, housing scams and other challenges remain safely and independently housed.

VELO for Vets riders will depart the Richard O. Watson Judicial Center in St. Augustine at 7:30 a.m. and travel north under police escort, arriving in Downtown Jacksonville around 10:30–10:45 a.m. Their finish line will be part of the K9s For Warriors Armed Forces Tri-Bridge Challenge festivities near USS ORLECK.

Together, the two events will bring hundreds of participants and supporters to the downtown riverfront for a morning devoted to service, sacrifice and supporting our veterans.

Dance, Dazzle and Fireworks on the ORLECK Pier

Get ready for a spectacular night on the St. Johns River! On Saturday, November 28, from 6:00 to 10:30 PM, the USS ORLECK Navy Pier will offer a front-row seat for one of Jacksonville's favorite holiday traditions, along with a Hush Hush Silent Disco under the stars.

Slip on your headphones, included with admission, and dance on the pier while Jacksonville's Light Boat Parade sails by in a procession of brightly decorated boats. Then look to the sky for the city's fireworks show, expected around 8:00 PM.

Gates open at 6:00 PM, with music continuing until 10:00 PM. Food vendors and a cash bar will be available, and guests are welcome to bring folding chairs for the seating area at the end of the pier. The pier is ADA accessible.

Advance tickets are $14, with day-of tickets $18 if space remains. Guests must be 15 or older, and ages 15–17 must be accompanied by an adult.

Come for the boats, stay for the fireworks, and dance the night away on the riverfront!

CREWMATE CHRONICLES

From the USS ORLECK to Pawn Stars

Long before he became known to television audiences as “The Old Man,” Richard Benjamin Harrison Jr. was a 17-year-old sailor reporting for duty aboard USS ORLECK.

Harrison joined the Navy in October 1958 after growing up in Lexington, North Carolina, where employment opportunities were limited. He later recalled that his choice seemed to be between joining the Navy and working in a cotton mill. Shortly after boot camp, he was assigned to the ORLECK, where he worked as a deckhand and in the ship’s laundry. 

Although he originally intended to serve only one enlistment, civilian life did not offer the security his growing family needed. After working briefly in construction, Harrison returned to the Navy and ultimately completed a 20-year career. He served aboard four ships, spent approximately 14 years at sea, and rose to the rank of Personnelman First Class before retiring in 1979. 

Harrison credited the Navy with teaching him responsibility, discipline, patriotism, and the value of hard work. Reflecting on his service years later, he wrote simply: “Actually, it shaped my life.” 

Following his retirement, Harrison tried his hand at real estate before moving his family to Las Vegas. In 1988, he and his son Rick opened the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop with an initial investment of approximately $10,000. His ability to judge merchandise, negotiate firmly, and recognize an undervalued treasure helped turn the shop into a multimillion-dollar business. 

In 2009, the family business became the setting for the History Channel series Pawn Stars. Harrison’s dry humor, stern expressions, business instincts, and unmistakable presence soon made him one of reality television’s most recognizable personalities. He remained an influential figure on the program until his death on June 25, 2018, at age 77. 

His journey from the laundry and decks of USS ORLECK to one of television’s best-known pawn shops offers a surprising reminder of the many lives shaped aboard this historic destroyer.

READ THE FULL STORY:

https://www.usni.org/magazines/proceedings/2012/january/answering-call-you-cant-put-dollar-value-navy-service-i-wouldnt?

Before he became “The Old Man,” Richard Harrison was an ORLECK sailor.

Your Story Could Be Next

Richard Harrison’s journey from the decks of the USS ORLECK to national television is a remarkable one, but it is only one of many stories connected to this historic ship.

If you served aboard the ORLECK, or if you are a family member of someone who did, we would be honored to share your memories in a future edition of Crewmate Chronicles. Tell us about your role aboard ship, a favorite memory, a shipmate you still remember, or a moment that has stayed with you through the years. Photos are also warmly welcomed.

These personal stories give life to the ship’s history and help future generations understand the people who stood the watch, served with pride, and helped shape the ORLECK’s legacy.

USS ORLECK Ranks Among Jacksonville’s Best Museums

Jacksonville offers an impressive variety of museums, but one of the city’s most distinctive historical attractions is earning growing recognition from visitors near and far.

As of August 2026, Tripadvisor ranks the USS ORLECK Navy Museum No. 4 among 51 museums in Jacksonville, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5. Tripadvisor’s rankings consider traveler reviews, ratings, page views, and user location. On Yelp, visitors have awarded the museum a strong rating of 4.5 out of 5.

The recognition places the USS ORLECK alongside some of Jacksonville’s best-known cultural and historical destinations. It is an especially meaningful accomplishment for a museum that has been open in Jacksonville for only a few years and continues to grow through the dedication of its staff, volunteers, veterans, members, and supporters.

Unlike a traditional museum, the USS ORLECK invites visitors to step directly into history. Guests cross the brow and enter an authentic 390-foot Gearing-class destroyer, exploring the passageways, living quarters, mess decks, weapons systems, workspaces, and operational areas once used by hundreds of sailors.

Today, she continues to serve as a museum, educational center, community gathering place, and living tribute to the men and women of the United States Navy.

Visitors frequently describe the ship as an unexpected Jacksonville treasure. One Tripadvisor reviewer called the ORLECK a “wonderful addition to the waterfront” and said the self-guided tour was “awesome.” Another titled her review, “So glad we spent the time touring the USS Orleck.”

Yelp reviewers have expressed similar enthusiasm. One visitor wrote, “Great to have the USS Orleck museum in our military town,” while another described the experience as an “absolutely amazing tour and ongoing project.”

The museum’s volunteers are frequently singled out for praise. Many are Navy veterans or individuals with extensive knowledge of the ship, its equipment, and the experiences of those who served aboard her. Their personal stories and enthusiasm transform a tour into something far more meaningful than a walk through an historic vessel.

This growing recognition belongs to everyone who has helped bring the ORLECK to Jacksonville, restore her spaces, develop her exhibits, welcome visitors, lead tours, support educational programs, and preserve her story.

The USS ORLECK is no longer one of Jacksonville’s best-kept secrets. She is officially being recognized as one of the city’s best museums, and she is only getting better.

Have you toured the USS ORLECK? Help others discover the ship by sharing your experience and leaving a review on Tripadvisor, Yelp, or Google. Every review helps keep the ORLECK’s story moving full speed ahead.

JULY 4 America’s 250th Birthday Bash Lights Up the USS ORLECK

The Florida Historic Naval Ship Association and the USS ORLECK Naval Museum hosted a huge Fourth of July celebration aboard the ship and pier in honor of America’s 250th birthday, and the response from the community was tremendous.

The Pier & Ship Party brought guests together for an unforgettable evening on the downtown waterfront, featuring live music from DJ Rantz, sets by local guest DJs across two stages, food, full bars, and one of the best front-row views in Jacksonville for the city’s fireworks display.

Excitement for the event was strong from the start, with presale tickets completely selling out due to high local demand. Guests filled the pier and ship with patriotic spirit, music, dancing, and celebration, creating a lively and memorable atmosphere aboard one of Jacksonville’s most historic landmarks.

One guest captured the feeling of the evening perfectly: “We had a spectacular viewing point for the City of Jacksonville fireworks. What a way to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday aboard the USS ORLECK. Thank you to the Florida Historic Naval Ship Association and the crew of the USS ORLECK Naval Museum for a truly amazing night celebrating our freedom on the deck of a ship that fought for it.”

With the skyline, the St. Johns River, and the USS ORLECK as the backdrop, the evening served as a fitting tribute to America’s milestone anniversary. It was also a powerful reminder of ORLECK’s continued role as a place where history, community, and celebration come together.

Photos Courtesy of Jim Humbert

JULY 14 A Piece of Navy History Finds a New Home Aboard ORLECK

USS ORLECK recently welcomed a special visitor, Nick Howland, Jacksonville City Council President and U.S. Navy veteran, who came aboard for a tour and to share a meaningful piece of his own Navy history.

During his visit, Mr. Howland toured the ship, including the developing Escape Room project, and expressed great enthusiasm for its upcoming opening. He also brought with him a unique artifact from his time in the Navy: the Bull Ensign horns from USS CHANDLER.

The horns hung aboard USS CHANDLER 30 years ago, when Mr. Howland served first as the “Boot Ensign,” the junior ensign who often got the dirty jobs, and later as the “Bull Ensign,” the senior ensign who assigned them. After CHANDLER was decommissioned, a shipmate noticed Mr. Howland’s name scrawled on the back of the horns and rescued them.

Since then, the horns have hung in Mr. Howland’s office. Now, they are on loan to USS ORLECK, where they have found a fitting new home in the ship’s wardroom.

We are grateful to Mr. Howland for his visit, his support, and for entrusting ORLECK with this small but meaningful piece of Navy tradition.

JULY 17 America’s 250th Celebrated at the USS ORLECK

On July 17, the pier beside the USS ORLECK provided a patriotic waterfront setting for a celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Hosted by the Jax Beaches Republican Women’s Club Federated, the evening brought guests together for food, music, fellowship, and candidate meet-and-greets. Attendees enjoyed appetizers and refreshments while celebrating the nation’s history beside one of Jacksonville’s most significant military landmarks. 

A number of prominent state and national leaders were invited as special guests, along with Republican candidates for local and statewide offices. The gathering offered guests an opportunity to meet candidates and become more engaged in the political process.

With the Jacksonville skyline and St. Johns River as its backdrop, the USS ORLECK once again demonstrated its unique ability to serve not only as a historic naval museum, but also as a gathering place for community connection, civic engagement, and patriotic celebration.

AUGUST 1 Ship Fest Brings a Sea of White to the USS ORLECK

On August 1, the USS ORLECK and surrounding shipyard were transformed into one of Jacksonville’s most distinctive nightlife destinations for the sixth annual Ship Fest White Attire Party.

Presented by Lucky Duck Promotions, the evening welcomed guests dressed in white for a high-energy celebration filled with music, dancing, food, and waterfront views. The historic destroyer provided a dramatic setting as partygoers moved throughout the event spaces and enjoyed the Jacksonville skyline from the St. Johns River.

Three separate music areas kept the celebration going throughout the night. Guests could enjoy house music on the main stage, a dueling DJ experience, and a 360-degree boiler-room-style stage featuring Top 40 and bass favorites. Food was also available onsite, giving attendees a chance to recharge before returning to the dance floor.

Events like Ship Fest highlight the USS ORLECK’s continuing role as more than a museum. While she remains dedicated to preserving naval history and honoring those who served, the ship also provides an unforgettable venue for community gatherings and special events.

For one summer evening, the “Gray Ghost” traded Navy blue for a sea of white, proving once again that history and modern Jacksonville energy can come together in spectacular fashion.

AUGUST 5 Clay High School NJROTC Answers the Call Aboard the USS ORLECK

The USS ORLECK recently welcomed cadets from the Clay High School Navy Junior ROTC program for a hands-on work day aboard the historic destroyer.

Rather than simply touring the ship, the cadets rolled up their sleeves and became part of the volunteer crew, contributing their time, energy, and teamwork to the continuing effort to care for and preserve the ORLECK. Working within the ship’s authentic spaces gave them an opportunity to experience naval history from a very different perspective.

A museum ship requires constant attention. Behind every restored compartment, freshly prepared space, and improved visitor area are many hours of physical work performed by dedicated volunteers. The Clay High School cadets approached the day with enthusiasm, discipline, and a willingness to help wherever they were needed.

Their service reflected the values at the heart of NJROTC: leadership, responsibility, teamwork, citizenship, and commitment to community. It also created a meaningful connection between a new generation of students and the sailors whose lives and service are represented aboard the ship.

For the cadets, the work day offered more than community service hours. It was a chance to step inside history, work together in an authentic naval environment, and see firsthand what it takes to preserve an important piece of America’s maritime heritage.

For the USS ORLECK, their visit provided something equally valuable: capable hands, youthful energy, and a reminder that the ship’s story continues to inspire future generations.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the Clay High School NJROTC cadets and their instructors for choosing to serve aboard the ORLECK. Their hard work made a difference, and we hope this will be the first of many visits.

Clay High School NJROTC, thank you for helping keep history alive!

The coin below commemorates service with the 38th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron at Takhli Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, and features the HH-43 “Pedro” rescue helicopter along with the fitting motto, “That Others May Live.” 

Photo Courtesy of Jim Webb

Above from left: VVA members aboard the USS Orleck

Bill Stokka (Air Force),

Mike "Doc" Finch (Navy Corpsman),

Ray Prieur (Army),

and John Gibbs (Navy)

Photo Courtesy of Mike Finch

AUGUST 11-15 Vietnam Veterans Come Aboard USS ORLECK and Leave More Than Memories

The 2026 VVA National Leadership & Education Conference, held August 11 through 15 at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, brought Vietnam Veterans of America members to downtown Jacksonville, and USS ORLECK was honored to be part of their visit.

Members of VVA Chapter 109 toured ORLECK during a break from conference activities, braving temperatures in the mid-90s to spend time aboard and swap sea stories with ORLECK volunteers in the wardroom.

Veterans shared memories of ships, squadrons, units, and service, turning the wardroom into exactly what a historic ship should be: a place to gather, remember, laugh, and preserve stories.

One particularly memorable encounter happened away from ORLECK. Jim Webb, a USS ORLECK volunteer who has worked extensively with the Navy and other branches of the armed forces as a contractor, has spent much of his life around service members and veterans. While he and his wife were having a quick meal at Keane’s Tavern, Jim spotted a gentleman wearing a Vietnam veteran cap. He introduced himself, asked about the man’s service, and naturally told him about USS ORLECK and her own Vietnam history. As the couple prepared to walk back to the Hyatt, Jim said goodbye and the veteran quietly palmed him a challenge coin. What began as a casual conversation over lunch became a personal connection and an unexpected keepsake, a reminder of the bonds that can form through shared respect for military service.

Founded in 1978, Vietnam Veterans of America advocates for Vietnam-era veterans through health care, benefits assistance, support for homeless veterans, scholarships, and other programs. Their visit was especially meaningful aboard ORLECK, whose own history includes service during the Vietnam War.

Sometimes preserving history means maintaining steel, paint, and artifacts. Other times, it simply means pulling up a chair and listening. To the VVA members who came aboard, shared their stories, and left us with treasured reminders of their service, thank you.

It was an honor to welcome you aboard USS ORLECK, and most of all, welcome home.

New Battle of the Atlantic Model Display

Our two model clubs, IPMS First Coast and Model Creations Unlimited, have once again created an outstanding new exhibit aboard USS ORLECK.

The display highlights the Battle of the Atlantic and features an impressive collection of German U-boats, German Schnellboote, similar to American PT boats, and the Allied ships and aircraft that fought against them.

A new informational poster has also been added, providing visitors with an overview of the exhibit’s theme and interesting historical facts about the Battle of the Atlantic.

The clubs have generously donated another large selection of plastic model kits for sale in the Ship’s Store, and they are selling quickly. Several models were too large or valuable to place on the shelves, so they will be reserved for auctions or raffles during future special events.

Changing these displays requires a tremendous amount of time and effort. A special thank-you goes to:

James Stratton

Robert Tate

Gil Flores

Dave Henk

Bob O’Conner

Dave Sheppard

Ray Schmidt

Harry Swett

Their dedication made this exceptional exhibit possible, and it has already received many enthusiastic comments from our visitors.

Bravo Zulu Master Chief Stroud and to everyone involved for a job well done!

“The Bold One” Is Home

After years of planning, persistence, and more than a little red tape, a major piece of Jacksonville’s naval history has finally come home.

On September 16, the sail structure and fairwater planes from USS JACKSONVILLE (SSN-699), along with a rudder assembly, completed their cross-country journey from the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Washington.

The massive components traveled aboard four flatbed trailers arranged through Jacksonville-based Landstar Systems. Veterans, supporters, and onlookers gathered as the 55-ton shipment arrived at Fincantieri Marine Repair, where the pieces will be reassembled and restored before eventually moving to their permanent home on Jacksonville’s riverfront.

For Stephen Jorgensen, president of Bring The Sail 2 Jax, the arrival marked the culmination of years of determination. Jorgensen served aboard USS JACKSONVILLE as an electrician’s mate first class and was a member of her commissioning crew. When the submarine was decommissioned in Bremerton in 2021, he was there. He returned to Jacksonville with artifacts and an idea that grew into a mission: bring a significant piece of Jacksonville’s namesake submarine home.

USS JACKSONVILLE was commissioned on May 16, 1981, and served for four decades before being decommissioned in November 2021. Nicknamed “The Bold One,” a nod to Jacksonville’s former “Bold New City of the South” slogan, she remains the only U.S. Navy warship to have carried the city’s name.

The restoration is expected to take about a year. Once completed, the submarine components are planned as an educational memorial near USS ORLECK, giving visitors a rare opportunity to experience two very different chapters of naval history: the surface Navy and the silent service.

One possibility would make that connection especially striking. Jim Webb, Executive Director of the Jacksonville Naval Museum and an ORLECK volunteer, told Jacksonville Today that engineers have been studying whether the pier can support the approximately 55-ton assembly. If feasible, the display could be positioned so USS JACKSONVILLE appears to be “pacing” ORLECK at sea.

The project has received support from Landstar Systems, Fincantieri Marine Repair, the City of Jacksonville, and members of the USS ORLECK organization. Florida Historic Naval Ship Association President Dan Bean, Jim Webb, Master Chief Charles Davis, Master Chief Pat Stroud, and others associated with ORLECK have helped move the effort forward.

The arrival also drew considerable local media attention, with Jacksonville news organizations capturing the enormous submarine components as they made the final miles of their journey. For former USS JACKSONVILLE sailors who gathered to watch, however, it was about much more than 55 tons of steel arriving on four trucks.

It meant their boat had come home.

Someday, visitors walking Jacksonville’s riverfront may stand beside USS ORLECK, look toward the submarine sail nearby, and see two extraordinary pieces of naval history together.

One served on the surface.

One served beneath it.

Both served our nation.

And now, both will call Jacksonville home.

Welcome home, Bold One. We’ve been waiting for you.

Based on reporting by Dan Scanlan for Jacksonville Today, July 24 and September 16, 2026; Rick Anderson for the Jacksonville Daily Record, August 18, 2026; Action News Jax; and information provided by Stephen Jorgensen of Bring The Sail 2 Jax.https://jaxtoday.org/2026/07/24/uss-jacksonville-submarine-display/ https://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/news/2026/aug/18/effort-to-establish-uss-jacksonville-memorial-making-headway/ https://bringthesail2jax.org/

The USS Jacksonville glides into Puget Sound Naval Shipyard at Bremerton, Washington, where it was decommissioned in 2021. Jacksonville resident Stephen Jorgensen, who served aboard the submarine, was present for the decommissioning and became inspired to bring a portion of the vessel to Jacksonville to display as an educational tribute.

The sail, or conning tower, and dive planes of the decommissioned USS Jacksonville nuclear-powered submarine are shown at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard at Bremerton, Washington. A Jacksonville-based nonprofit organization is working to bring the sail structure and the rudder from a submarine of the same class to put on display at Shipyards West Park on the Downtown Northbank.

This diagram shows the parts of the USS Jacksonville that would be removed and brought to Jacksonville for display.

Shipyards West Park is along Bay Street on the Downtown Northbank. At the west edge of the park, the USS Orleck floating naval museum is docked.

Photos Courtesy of BringtheSail2Jax

🇺🇸 USS ORLECK Volunteer Earns Blue Jacket of the Quarter

The USS ORLECK Naval Museum is proud to congratulate Brandon Sahaj, an active-duty sailor and dedicated volunteer docent, on being named Blue Jacket of the Quarter for the Air Wolves of HSM-40.

The Blue Jacket of the Quarter distinction recognizes junior sailors who demonstrate exceptional performance, military professionalism, leadership, initiative, and devotion to duty. Brandon’s selection reflects the high standards he brings to his responsibilities with HSM-40, as well as the commitment to service that extends well beyond his regular military duties.

When he is not fulfilling his active-duty responsibilities, Brandon generously volunteers his time aboard the USS ORLECK. As a docent, he helps welcome visitors, interpret the ship’s history, answer questions, and connect guests with the experiences of the sailors who served aboard naval vessels like ORLECK. His firsthand perspective as an active-duty sailor adds a meaningful dimension to every tour, helping visitors understand that the traditions of professionalism, teamwork, and service represented aboard the ship continue in today’s Navy.

Balancing military obligations with volunteer service is no small accomplishment. Brandon’s willingness to devote his personal time to preserving naval history and educating the public demonstrates the same initiative and dedication recognized by this prestigious award. His service reminds us that the USS ORLECK is not only a link to the Navy’s past, but also a place where generations of sailors come together through a shared commitment to duty and country.

We are honored to have Brandon as part of the ORLECK volunteer crew and proud to celebrate this well-deserved achievement.

Congratulations, Brandon, on being selected as the Air Wolves of HSM-40 Blue Jacket of the Quarter.

AUGUST 20 SERMC Chiefs and Selectees Answer the Call Aboard USS ORLECK

The USS ORLECK was proud to welcome a hardworking group of Chief Petty Officers and Chief Selectees from Southeast Regional Maintenance Center (SERMC) who volunteered their time and talents aboard the ship.

SERMC plays a vital role in keeping today’s Navy ready for the Fleet, providing surface ship maintenance, modernization, technical expertise, training, and skilled craftsmanship. Its mission is straightforward and important: to provide cost-effective, quality maintenance and technical support that delivers mission-ready ships.

That same spirit of service was evident aboard ORLECK as the Chiefs and Selectees rolled up their sleeves and went to work. Their willingness to give their time, share their expertise, and tackle needed projects aboard our historic destroyer was greatly appreciated.

For ORLECK, volunteer support like this means far more than completing a day’s work. Maintaining an 80-year-old Navy destroyer requires constant attention, countless hours, and plenty of willing hands. Every project completed helps preserve the ship, improve the visitor experience, and ensure that ORLECK can continue telling the story of the Sailors who served aboard her.

There is also something especially fitting about today’s Navy helping care for a ship that represents generations of naval service. ORLECK may no longer deploy with the Fleet, but through efforts like these, she continues to serve as a classroom, a memorial, and a tangible connection between past and present Sailors.

A huge thank you to the SERMC Chiefs and Chief Selectees for choosing to spend their time aboard USS ORLECK. We are grateful for your hard work, professionalism, and commitment to service. Your efforts made a real difference, and you will always be welcome aboard.

From one generation of the Navy to another, thank you for helping keep ORLECK shipshape and her history alive.

AUGUST 21 Sunset Yoga and Sound Immersion Brings Community Together at the USS ORLECK

On Friday, August 21, the USS ORLECK pier became a place of healing, hope, and community as guests gathered for Healing Through Harmony, a sunset yoga and sound bath fundraiser benefiting Yhang Quintero in his fight against lymphoma.

The evening began with a gentle 30-minute sunset yoga flow led by Alejandra of Casa Vive. Participants of all experience levels were invited to slow down, breathe deeply, and move together as the evening light settled across the St. Johns River.

Yoga was followed by a 45-minute sound bath and gong immersion led by Sheri Blanc and SoundBath Jax. The soothing sounds of crystal singing bowls and gongs filled the pier, creating a peaceful setting against the backdrop of USS ORLECK and the Downtown Jacksonville waterfront.

Photo Courtesy of SoundBath Jax

SEPTEMBER 4 USS ORLECK Recognized as a Supporter of Downtown Jacksonville

As Jacksonville celebrated 904 Day on September 4, the USS ORLECK Naval Museum received special recognition for the role it plays in the heart of our city, along with a $1,000 check in support of the museum’s mission.

At the Downtown Council’s annual Gives Back Breakfast, USS ORLECK & Naval Museum was recognized as one of five “champions of the urban core,” organizations whose work contributes to the vitality and future of Downtown Jacksonville.

The recognition was highlighted in 904 Happy Hour’s 2026 904 Day Guide, which featured celebrations and events showcasing the people, places, and organizations that make Northeast Florida special.

For USS ORLECK, the recognition and generous $1,000 contribution are especially meaningful. Beyond preserving an important piece of American naval history, the ship has become part of the continuing transformation of Jacksonville’s riverfront, welcoming visitors, veterans, students, community organizations, and special events aboard throughout the year.

As Downtown Jacksonville continues to grow and evolve, we are proud that USS ORLECK is not only preserving the past, but helping shape the future of the urban core.

Our sincere thanks to the Downtown Council for this recognition and generous support of USS ORLECK and her continuing mission in Jacksonville.

SEPTEMBER 14-17 ORLECK Represented at Historic Naval Ships Symposium

Preserving a historic naval vessel comes with challenges that few ordinary museums ever encounter. There is steel to protect, machinery to maintain, volunteers to recruit and train, exhibits to develop, educational programs to create, and an aging ship that never stops needing attention.

Fortunately, museum ships do not have to tackle those challenges alone.

The Historic Naval Ships Association (HNSA) 2026 Symposium, held September 14–17 in Evansville, Indiana, brought together representatives from historic naval ships and maritime museums to exchange ideas, expertise, and lessons learned. This year's host was the historic USS LST-325, a World War II Landing Ship, Tank preserved as a museum in Evansville.

Representing USS ORLECK at this year's symposium were our own Master Chief Charles Davis and Captain James Fossa. Their attendance gave ORLECK an opportunity not only to learn from other historic ship organizations, but also to share some of the experiences, challenges, and successes taking place right here aboard DD-886.

The annual symposium gives those responsible for preserving historic ships an opportunity to learn from one another. Discussions and presentations address many of the issues museum ships confront every day, including preservation, maintenance, museum operations, education, fundraising, volunteer development, and ways to keep these vessels relevant to future generations.

There could hardly have been a more appropriate setting than USS LST-325.

Landing Ship, Tanks were designed to carry troops, vehicles, and equipment directly onto enemy shores. LST-325 participated in World War II operations and today serves as a floating memorial and museum in Evansville. Remarkably, she remains operational and has continued to make cruises to other U.S. river ports.

The 2026 gathering also came during a milestone year for LST-325, marking 25 years since the ship returned to the United States in 2001 to begin a new chapter preserving the history of the LSTs, their crews, and the men and women who built them.

From destroyers like USS ORLECK to aircraft carriers, submarines, battleships, and landing ships, every vessel has its own story. Yet the people caring for them share many of the same goals: preserving irreplaceable pieces of American history, honoring those who served aboard them, educating visitors, and ensuring these ships remain accessible for generations to come.

That is what makes gatherings such as the HNSA Symposium so valuable. An idea developed aboard one museum ship can become a solution aboard another. A successful education program, preservation technique, fundraising approach, or volunteer initiative can be shared throughout the historic ship community.

And thanks to Master Chief Charles Davis and Captain James Fossa, USS ORLECK had a seat at that table.

Their participation represents something that happens quietly but importantly behind the scenes at ORLECK: learning from others, building relationships, and bringing home ideas that can help us continue preserving The Grey Ghost of the Vietnam Coast.

Different ships. Different stories. One shared mission: keep the ships, preserve their history, and tell their stories.

SEPTEMBER 16 Good Is Everywhere Brings Free Admission to the USS ORLECK

On Wednesday, September 16, the USS ORLECK welcomed visitors aboard for a special day of free admission as part of VyStar Credit Union’s annual Good is Everywhere community celebration.

From 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, guests had the opportunity to explore the historic destroyer at no cost, experiencing firsthand the ship’s remarkable history and Northeast Florida’s proud military heritage.

Visitors walked the decks, toured interior spaces, and enjoyed sweeping views of the Jacksonville skyline from the St. Johns River. For many, the event offered a chance to discover the ORLECK for the first time and gain a better understanding of what daily life was like for the sailors who once served aboard her.

VyStar’s Good is Everywhere initiative is designed to strengthen communities by providing access to cultural, educational, and historic attractions while encouraging volunteerism and community engagement throughout the region.

The USS ORLECK was proud to be included in this year’s celebration and grateful for the opportunity to welcome new visitors aboard.

Partnerships like this help introduce the ship to a broader audience, support our mission of preservation and education, and remind us that when community organizations work together, good truly is everywhere.

SEPTEMBER 24 High-Tech Cleaning Takes Flight Aboard USS ORLECK

Visitors to the USS ORLECK Naval Museum recently saw the historic destroyer become a proving ground for some very modern technology when Jacksonville-based Apellix brought its autonomous Power Wash Drone aboard for a live demonstration.

The September 24 event showcased the Apellix Blue Power Wash Drone as it cleaned a portion of ORLECK’s exterior while its operator remained safely on the ground. Tethered to its power and fluid supply, the drone demonstrated how difficult surfaces at height and over water can be cleaned without scaffolding, lifts, rope access, or placing workers in potentially hazardous positions.

ORLECK provided an especially fitting setting for the demonstration. Maintaining a 390-foot historic Navy destroyer presents many of the same challenges encountered by shipyards, ports, industrial facilities, and large commercial properties. The event gave contractors, maritime professionals, facility managers, and government and defense representatives an opportunity to see the technology at work on a real-world surface rather than in a controlled demonstration area.

Attendees also got an up-close look at the drone’s NDAA-compliant hardware and Apellix’s AirShift and AirTrace AI autonomy features, which help automate repeatable flight paths and allow operators to concentrate on safety and the overall job. Apellix representatives answered questions about potential applications in maritime, defense, industrial, and commercial maintenance.

Founded in Jacksonville in 2014, Apellix develops autonomous drones for power washing, spray painting, inspection, and building maintenance. Its systems are used internationally and by the U.S. Army, and the company proudly employs disabled veterans.

For a ship whose story spans the Korean War, Vietnam War, Cold War service, and two decades with the Turkish Navy, the demonstration offered an interesting contrast between past and present. ORLECK once carried some of the most advanced naval technology of her era. More than 80 years after her launch, she once again provided a platform for innovation, this time showing how autonomous technology may make the difficult work of maintaining ships and industrial facilities safer and more efficient.

Troop 886 Celebrates an Exciting First Year

As part of its community outreach efforts, the USS ORLECK Naval Museum proudly sponsors Scouting America Troop 886, and the troop has already enjoyed an active and memorable first year.

Highlights have included two Courts of Honor, special ceremonies where Scouts are formally recognized for rank advancements, merit badges, awards, and other achievements. These gatherings give Scouts, leaders, and families an opportunity to celebrate individual accomplishments and the troop's progress together.

The troop also celebrated a staff member's completion of Wood Badge, Scouting America's premier advanced leadership training program for adult volunteers. Wood Badge develops leadership, teamwork, communication, and organizational skills that volunteers bring back to their troops and the young people they mentor.

Another highlight was an overnight adventure aboard USS ORLECK. Scouts learned about navigation and emergency escape procedures and received an extensive tour of the ship, gaining a firsthand look at what daily life was like for sailors at sea.

The troop also enjoyed an outing to a Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp game, where Troop 886 received special recognition on the stadium video board.

Just as ORLECK supports the Scouts, Troop 886 has been giving back to the ship. Members assisted with crowd control during ORLECK's July 4 celebration and have rolled up their sleeves to help keep the ship shipshape by sweeping decks and cleaning other areas aboard.

Troop 886 is grateful for the support of FHNSA and looks forward to growing its membership, strengthening its partnership with USS ORLECK, and expanding Scouting opportunities for young people in Downtown Jacksonville.

For Troop 886, USS ORLECK isn't just its sponsor. It's also a classroom, gathering place, and ship they are proud to call their own.

FROM THE USS ORLECK GALLEY-NAVY BEAN SOUP NAVY STYLE

What did sailors eat aboard a Navy destroyer like the USS ORLECK?

A glimpse comes from The Cook Book of the United States Navy, revised in 1944, just one year before the ORLECK was commissioned. In fact, the ORLECK’s galley features an original vintage 1944 edition of the Navy cookbook on display for visitors touring the ship.

Navy recipes were not written for a family of four. They were designed to feed an entire crew, with quantities measured in pounds, gallons, and sometimes hundreds of servings.

One classic Navy favorite was Navy Bean Soup, a hearty combination of dried beans, ham stock, onions, ham bones, and simple seasonings. The official recipe produced approximately six gallons, or 100 one-cup portions. For a destroyer crew numbering several hundred sailors, Navy cooks might have prepared the recipe several times over.

Cooking aboard ship was no small undertaking. Cooks worked in cramped galleys, often while the ship was underway, preparing hundreds of meals every day. A dependable recipe like Navy Bean Soup provided something filling, economical, and familiar to sailors far from home.

Try It in Your Own Galley

Unless you happen to be feeding 100 hungry sailors, here is a more manageable version inspired by the Navy recipe.

Navy Bean Soup, Home Galley Version

Makes about 8 servings

• 1 cup dried navy beans
• 6 cups ham or chicken stock
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 ham bone or ham hock
• Small pinch of ground cloves
• 2 to 3 tablespoons flour
• About 1/3 cup cold water
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

Soak the beans for two to three hours or overnight. Combine the beans, stock, onion, ham bone, and cloves in a large pot. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer until the beans are tender, about two hours.

Remove the ham bone. Mix the flour with cold water until smooth, stir it into the soup, and continue cooking until slightly thickened. Season with pepper and salt to taste.

For the Navy’s tomato variation, simply add diced tomatoes before simmering.

The next time you walk through the ORLECK’s galley, take a look at the original 1944 Navy cookbook and imagine hundreds of sailors waiting for the call to chow.

The 1944 edition of The Cook Book of the United States Navy preserved aboard the USS ORLECK.

⚓ In Memoriam: Honoring Our Shipmates

Carl Douglas “Doug” Smothermon

Carl Douglas “Doug” Smothermon, a proud Navy veteran, passed away on August 27, 2026, at the age of 76. He served honorably aboard the USS ORLECK during the Vietnam War and remained connected to his naval heritage throughout his life as a member of the National Association of Destroyer Veterans.

Doug was also a loyal and generous supporter of the USS ORLECK Naval Museum, faithfully contributing to the preservation of the ship on which he once served. His continued support was a meaningful expression of his enduring connection to ORLECK and his shipmates.

Doug leaves behind a loving family and a legacy of service, patriotism, generosity, and devotion to his fellow veterans.

https://www.watsonandsonsfh.com/obituaries/carl-smothermon

We pause to remember all of the sailors who once walked these decks and have since passed.Their names, stories, friendships, and service remain woven into the history of the ORLECK, and we are honored to help preserve that legacy for generations to come.

Families and former shipmates are always welcome to send us memorial information, photographs, or memories of those who served aboard.

Rest easy, shipmates. You stand relieved.

ANSWER:

Take the first letter of each line:

W A R D R O O M

🤝 Sponsorship and Event Opportunities Available

Interested in supporting our local heroes, preserving naval history, or creating a memorable experience aboard the USS ORLECK? Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses, organizations, and individuals who wish to support upcoming events and programs.

The ship is also one of Jacksonville’s most distinctive venues for private gatherings, corporate events, parties, meetings, reunions, celebrations, and other special occasions.

At the helm of it all is Nadia, ORLECK’s Director of Events and Event Coordinator, who does an incredible job turning ideas into memorable experiences aboard the ship. From helping select the right space to coordinating the many details that make an event successful, Nadia works closely with hosts to make each gathering aboard ORLECK truly special.

Whether you would like to sponsor an upcoming event or plan one of your own, Nadia would be delighted to help you explore the possibilities.

Have an idea for an event? Bring it aboard!

🌊 Fundraising Efforts: Building Momentum This Fall

This year continues to build on the strong growth and momentum we have experienced aboard the USS ORLECK. Thanks to your continued generosity, the ship is steadily evolving into one of Jacksonville’s most engaging, hands-on historic attractions. From ongoing preservation work and exhibit enhancements to the return of beloved traditions like the Friendship Lights, ORLECK continues to grow into the immersive, must-see naval museum our community deserves.

As we move into the fall season, we are seeing the impact of these investments throughout the ship. Expanded programming, enhanced visitor spaces, and new experiences are helping us welcome more families, students, veterans, and visitors aboard, bringing renewed energy and activity to the waterfront.

Our partnerships with veteran organizations, local military commands, community groups, and our incredible volunteers continue to grow stronger. Together, we are not only preserving history, we are honoring service, inspiring future generations, and creating a vibrant destination for Jacksonville and beyond.

If you would like to help us continue this momentum and bring even more experiences to life, we invite you to support our mission here: 

https://jaxnavalmuseum.reasonfunding.com/donate-online

Thank You to Our Corporate Sponsors

The Florida Historic Naval Ship Association and the USS ORLECK Naval Museum extend our sincere gratitude to the corporate sponsors whose generosity helps keep ORLECK moving full speed ahead.

Your support strengthens our mission to preserve this historic destroyer, honor those who served, expand educational programming, welcome students and families aboard, and create meaningful experiences for veterans, first responders, visitors, and the Jacksonville community.

Because of our corporate partners, the USS ORLECK continues to grow as a living classroom, veterans’ memorial, community gathering place, and unique maritime destination on the St. Johns River.

We are proud to recognize and thank our corporate sponsors for investing in the future of ORLECK and helping ensure her story continues to inspire generations to come.

With appreciation to our corporate sponsors:

Is It Time to Renew Your Membership?

If your membership is expiring soon, we warmly invite you to renew today and continue supporting the mission of the USS ORLECK Naval Museum.

Not yet a member? Now is the perfect time to come aboard!

Membership includes wonderful benefits, such as:

• Discounts in our Gift Shop
• Invitations to special events
• Unlimited visits to the ship
• And, at higher membership levels, the opportunity to host your own special event aboard the USS ORLECK

Your membership helps preserve this historic ship, honor those who served, and keep naval history alive for future generations.

Join or renew your membership here: 

Planning a visit? Please note our updated admission pricing as you plan your next trip aboard the USS ORLECK. Your ticket helps support the preservation of this historic ship, the continued development of educational programming, and our mission to honor service while keeping naval history alive for future generations.

Visitors can also enhance their experience with the Guide ID audio tour system, available to rent at the ticket booth when you arrive. As you move through the ship, simply look for the Guide ID symbol and your device will automatically play stories, insights, and details about each space. No buttons, no downloads, just explore at your own pace.

For the most current ticket information or to plan your visit, please visit: https://fhnsa.org/

Join the Crew of the USS ORLECK

Share your time and talents while helping preserve Jacksonville’s naval history. Volunteers are needed in many areas, including tours, the Ship’s Store, guest services, maintenance, restoration, special events, educational programs, social media, and more.

Whether you can contribute a few hours or become part of the regular crew, volunteering aboard the USS ORLECK is a rewarding way to meet new people, learn something new, earn community service hours, and make a lasting impact.

Your next mission? Come aboard here:

We are deeply grateful to our visitors and supporters, whose enthusiasm and generosity continue to propel the USS ORLECK and the Florida Historic Naval Ship Association forward. As we move into the fall season, we look ahead with renewed energy and appreciation, ready to grow our programs, strengthen community connections, and share this ship’s remarkable story with even more visitors.

Thank you for being part of the mission. Your support keeps ORLECK moving full speed ahead.

As daylight fades, her watch continues.

No longer asea, she now stands watch over the stories, sacrifices, and shipmates entrusted to her care.

Her mission has changed, but her promise has not:

No shipmate forgotten.

No story lost.

We. Are. Still. On. Watch.

Thank You!

Follow The Florida Historic Naval Ship Association on Social Media for information on upcoming events, special offers and restoration progress!

Stage Door is a nonprofit publication of the USS ORLECK Naval Museum dedicated to sharing the history, preservation, educational programs, and activities of USS ORLECK. We make reasonable efforts to obtain appropriate permissions and to identify and credit photographers, copyright holders, and original sources. Unless otherwise indicated, no ownership of third-party copyrighted material is claimed.



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