NORFOLK, Va. — It's a chance to be a part of history. The Battleship Wisconsin in downtown Norfolk is about to turn 80 years old!
Nauticus has numerous special events planned, including free admission for veterans and active-duty military personnel.
The Wisconsin, or "Whiskey" as she was called, first came to life on April 16, 1944, seeing action in both World War II and Korea before being decommissioned. She was brought back to life and saw action in Operation Desert Storm in 1991. Finally, On December 7, 2000, she arrived at her final resting place next to Nauticus.
During these past two dozen years, the now museum ship Wisconsin has drawn an average of 200,000 visitors per year, getting an up-close look at 20th-century American sea power.
"We are incredibly lucky here at Nauticaus and in the City of Norfolk to have such an iconic vessel as the Battleship Wisconsin," said Rehn West, Nauticus Director of Development & Marketing. "We are so excited to be celebrating the 80th. It's a big year, so it needs to be celebrated in a big way."
The Wisconsin was the last battleship built by the U.S. Navy. Throughout her time of service, she earned six battle stars, two combat action ribbons, and a Navy Unit Commendation Medal.
To celebrate the ship's 80th anniversary, Nauticus is offering complimentary admission for active-duty and veterans throughout the entire month of April. Also for the first time, guests will be able to tour junior officer berthing areas, the public affairs division TV studio, and Helo-control.
Complimentary military and veteran ticket availability is limited each day. Nauticus recommends reserving tickets online, in advance.
In addition, dependents of service members and vets are eligible for three dollars off general admission tickets.
On Saturday, April 13, there will be a celebration on board the ship, with meet and greets with Battleship Wisconsin veterans and guided tours.
Saturday's schedule of events is:
- 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.: WisKy Veteran Chat – Meet and greet with Battleship Wisconsin veterans.
- 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.: Enhanced Daily Programs – Learn more during your visit to Nauticus with these tabletop demonstrations.
- 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.: Free Sails with Sail Nauticus – Experience 30 minutes of sailing on the Elizabeth River aboard a Sail Nauticus sailboat (first come first serve).
- 10:30 a.m. & 2 p.m.: VIP Battleship Experience - Experience an exclusive guided tour hosted by our Battleship Operations Manager (and Desert Shield/Desert Storm Veteran of the Wisconsin), Keith Nitka, as he takes you on an in-depth exploration of the Wisconsin touring spaces not accessible on any other tour. Register Here.
- 12 p.m. & 2 p.m.: Workshop: Ice Cream! - Discover the fascinating history and science behind ice cream and learn how this delicious dessert played a role in the U.S. victory during World War II. Register Here.
