Thanks, Rick. I was honored to attend and participate in the USS WISCONSIN (SSBN-827) Keel Laying ceremony virtually from the USS WISCONSIN (BB-64) on 8/27/2025 in Norfolk, VA.
Interesting to note former IUSS Officer, CAPT Kathy DiMaggio, USN (Ret) is Chair of a non-profit Friends of USS WISCONSIN (SSBN 827) Association. Kathy coordinated Battleship WISCONSIN's involvement in the Watch Party.
Not that I know of, Nick. But that's a great idea. We recently uncovered a stash of original WW2 era Teak planking from somewhere in voids below deck in the battleship. I'm sure a suitable plaque or other memento could be created from some of that wood.
Additionally, BB64 currently holds the original 48-piece Presentation Silver Service Set presented to the Battleship by the State of Wisconsin. The original service, 34 pieces of Georgian design, was presented to the first Battleship WISCONSIN (BB-9) in 1901. In 1943 the service was reconditioned and 14 pieces added for the current Battleship WISCONSIN (BB-64).
I'll make a recommendation to the powers that be here in Norfolk.
