MUSEUM HAPPENINGS
It is with heavy hearts that the MSSM bids adieu to former Navy LTJG Delbert M Smith, who passed on 05/05/2022, 4 months short of his 101st birthday. Del was part of “The Greatest Generation”, as he flew his SB2C Helldivers and F4U Corsairs from the decks of aircraft carriers in the Pacific. Del was the recipient of numerous accolades and awards for his combat flying prowess, to include the Distinguished Flying Cross. When queried about the awards, Del would always answer with, “Just doing my job”. Aviators will attest that Del has not passed; he has simply climbed to a higher altitude.
On 30 May, the Military Sea Services Museum is honored to host a Memorial Day Celebration, as well as the 24th birthday of the MSSM. Master of Ceremonies, Mike Borders, COL USA Ret., will kick off the proceedings promptly at 2pm. Introduction of distinguished guests by MSSM President John Cecil will follow. Our Nations Colors will be paraded by the Sebring High School Air Force Junior ROTC Color Guard and Mrs. Becky McIntyre will sing the National Anthem. Our guest speaker will be James D. McTigue, CAPT. USN Ret. Captain McTigue is a Veteran of the Vietnam Conflict, and Operation Praying Mantis during the Iran-Iraq conflict that resulted in the damage to the USS Cole DDG67 during refueling operations in Aden, Yemen. Capt. McTigue also saw action during Operation Desert Storm, later called the 1st Space Way. numerous dignitaries from Highlands County have also been invited. A Ceremonial Cake Cutting, tours and refreshments will follow.
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