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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 27, 2012

The Era of Swing and Big Band Comes to the USS Hornet
Legendary Harry James Orchestra to Perform During Spring Event

Alameda, CA – February 27, 2012 – Prepare to transport yourself to the era of swing and Big Band music as the USS Hornet Museum hosts its premiere Spring Big Band Dance on Saturday, May 12 featuring the sounds of The Henry James Orchestra, directed by trumpet virtuoso Fred Rake.

The Harry James Orchestra is best known for “I had the Craziest Dream,” “You made me Love You,” and “Sleepy Lagoon. The legendary Frank Sinatra recorded “All for Nothing at All’, with the Harry James Orchestra.

The evening begins at 7:15 p.m. with The Swinging Blue Stars performing a tribute to the Andrews Sisters. The Henry James Orchestra will take the stage at 8 p.m. and perform until midnight as dancers swing the night away on three large floors. While not required, attendees are encouraged to get into the swing of things and wear period attire.

Forgot how to Cha Cha and Rumba? Not to worry, free dance lessons will be offered throughout the night by Fred Astaire instructor Jim Truesdale.

Ticket prices start at $40 per person for general admission. Cabaret reserved seating, in front of the stage, is $80 per person. Reserved seating near the dance floor is $60 per person. If the event is not sold out, tickets will be available at the door for $45 per person. Advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended.

A cash bar and food will be available during throughout the evening.

Proceeds to benefit the USS Hornet Museum.

Tickets can be ordered online at www.hornetevents.com, or by calling (510) 521-8448 x 282, Monday through Friday.

Ample, free parking is available across the street from the pier. The USS Hornet Museum is located at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3 in Alameda.

For more information, call (510) 521-8448 ext 282 or visit www.uss-hornet.org/

###

About the USS Hornet Museum:
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. Exhibits include airplanes, helicopters, spacecraft, and the West Coast’s largest Apollo 11 Moon Mission display. The museum is open to the public daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448 X 282

Media contacts:
Victoria Sanchez De Alba
De Alba Communications
(650) 270-7810
victoria@dealba.net 

Madeline McEntyre
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-4884, ext 282
mmcentyre@uss-hornet.org




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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 23, 2012

Red Tails Aim High!: A Tribute to Bay Area Tuskegee Airmen Veterans
USS Hornet Museum’s Living Ship Series Pays Tribute to Tuskegee Airmen

Alameda, CA – February 23, 2012 – The USS Hornet Museum will pay tribute to several local veterans of the famed WWII Tuskegee Air Squadron on March 17 as part of its Living Ship Day.

The Tuskegee Airmen were the first African American military aviators in the United States Armed Forces. They fought and flew with distinction during World War II. Their story was recently chronicled in Red Tails. Despite the racial discrimination they faced both in and outside the Army, they trained and flew with distinction.  In recognition of their efforts and bravery, the Tuskegee Airmen were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal.

The event begins at 1 p.m. with a presentation by the Tuskegee veterans sharing their experiences. It will be followed by a meet and greet.

Among those scheduled to attend include:

  • Capt. Edward Woodward of Vallejo. He joined the Tuskegee Squadron in 1945 and served 30 years in the military.
  • Lt. Lee Roy Gillead of San Francisco. He trained in the B-25 Bomber program and is a Tuskegee author and historian.
  • Capt. Les Williams of Belmont, was the first pilot to graduate from the B-25 Bomber program.
  • Lt. Burl Smith of Oakland was trained as a fighter pilot.
  • Sgt. Clyde Grimes of Oakland, was in intelligence bureau of Tuskegee Airmen.
  • Lt. Col Harold Hoskins of Danville, class of 46A, and he also served in Vietnam from 1963-1964. Retired in 1971 as Lt. Col.

Any other Tuskegee veterans will be given complimentary admission to the Museum that day.

A number of musical performances and activities will take between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Among the musical performers are The Frisky Frolics and the Swinging Blues Stars who take the stage at 12:30 p.m. There will also be a number of children’s activities.

Living Ship Day aboard the Hornet offers something for everyone. The museum comes to life as an operating aircraft carrier with flight simulations between 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. when aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed into launch position. Visitors can meet former crew, sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet, and enjoy the sights and sounds of naval aviation.

Living Ship Day demonstrations are held on the third Saturday of most months. Normal museum hours and admission prices apply. Museum Members receive free admission. Ample free parking is available across from the pier. The USS Hornet Museum is located at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3 in Alameda.

###

About the USS Hornet Museum:
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Media contacts:
Victoria Sanchez De Alba
De Alba Communications
(650) 270-7810
victoria@dealba.net 

Heidi Schave
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-4884, ext. 224
heidi.schave@uss-hornet.org




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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – December 14, 2011

Welcome 2012 onboard Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet’s New Year’s Eve Gala

Alameda, CA – December 14, 2011 – Ring in the New Year aboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet Museum. Enjoy live music, a silent auction, cash bars and food concessions, a midnight countdown, and a spectacular view of the Bay Area skyline. The ultimate New Year’s Eve Party will be held on the enclosed deck of the Historic Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 31.

As revelers board the carrier they will be greeted by the sounds of Swinging Blue Stars as they perform “A Tribute to the Andrews Sisters.”

The rest of the evening will be spent dancing to the unique sounds of 3 O’Clock Jump whose 17-piece band is made up of some of the best swing and jazz musicians from the Bay Area. Their musical style blends classic Big Band songs made famous during WWII with an eclectic repertoire that includes the Rhumba, Cha Cha Cha and Waltz.

Don’t know the fancy steps? Free dance lessons will be provided throughout the evening by Jim Truesdale, a former Fred Astaire instructor.

New Year’s Eve on the aircraft carrier USS Hornet is always a unique experience. A testimonial from the band’s website sums it up: “Last year’s New Year's Eve on the USS Hornet was the best ever, according to 850 dancers. The band had a great time playing to a jumping crowd of jitterbugs and hepcats who came in costume to cut a rug!”

A silent auction will be held with proceeds benefiting the USS Hornet Museum. Auction items include hotel packages, gift certificates to Bay Area restaurants, wines, sporting event tickets, antique armor, museum experiences, and fine jewelry. Some of the auction highlights can be viewed at: http://www.uss-hornet.org/calendar/newyear/auction.shtml

From swing to rock, the USS Hornet is the Bay Area’s best place to dance with three large dance floors on the enclosed, heated hangar deck. Tickets for the New Year’s Eve event are $45 to $85 per person and include free parking. An optional buffet dinner is available for purchase. For information and reservations: (510) 521-8448 x 282.

###

About the USS Hornet Museum:
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Media contacts:
Victoria Sanchez De Alba
De Alba Communications
(650) 270-7810
victoria@dealba.net 

Madeline McEntyre
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-4884, ext. 282
mmcentyre@uss-hornet.org




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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – November 21, 2011

USS Hornet Presents: Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
Bay Area Navy Veteran Ed Silveira, Eye Witness to Pearl Harbor Attack will be Special Guest Speaker

Alameda, CA – November 21, 2011 – In remembrance of the 70th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, the USS Hornet Museum will hold a special ceremony honoring the memory of those whose lives were lost on Dec. 7, 1941.

The service will begin at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 7 onboard the Hornet located at 707 W. Hornet Ave., Pier 3, Alameda.

The day’s special guest speaker will be Mr. Ed Silveira, a Navy veteran who was at Pearl Harbor when the attack occurred. Mr. Silvera was 19-years-old and part of the USS San Francisco when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. The USS San Francisco came into dry dock the morning before the attack but had to wait alongside the dock which saved it from being directly hit. Mr. Silveira will share his memories of seeing all the battleships hit and the ensuing chaos of the surprise attack. He is one of the few remaining veterans who witnessed firsthand the events of that December morning which lives in infamy.

In addition, the Hornet’s resident chaplain John Berger will offer a special service in remembrance which will be followed by a wreath tossing ceremony. Flowers will be provided to those who wish to participate. The carrier’s flags will fly at half-mast in remembrance of this solemn occasion.

On Dec. 7, 1941 a peaceful Sunday morning was shattered when fighter planes from the Japanese Imperial Navy attacked an unsuspecting US Naval fleet in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The surprise attack severely crippled the US battleship fleet, including the sinking of the USS Arizona which went down with 1,177 of her crew onboard.

Normal museum hours and admission prices apply. Ample free parking is available across the street from the pier. Admission prices for the general public range from $6-15. Parking is free.

###

About the USS Hornet Museum:
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Media contacts:
Victoria Sanchez De Alba
De Alba Communications
(650) 270-7810
victoria@dealba.net

Heidi Schave
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-8448, ext. 224
heidi.schave@uss-hornet.org

Madeline McEntyre
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-4884, ext. 282
mmcentyre@uss-hornet.org




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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – November 7, 2011

Apollo 11 Astronauts to be Honored with Congressional Gold Medal
USS Hornet is the Recovery Ship for Apollo 11 Mission and Home to Lunar Mission Artifacts

Alameda, CA – November 7, 2011 – The USS Hornet Museum, a registered state and national historic landmark and home of the largest collection of Apollo space mission artifacts on the West Coast, announces that the Apollo 11 astronauts will receive the Congressional Gold Medal in a ceremony on Nov. 16, at the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C.

Apollo 11 astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins, along with John Glenn, the first American to orbit earth, will join a select few who have been awarded this honor and become the first astronauts to receive this award. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian award given by Congress.

The USS Hornet is the home of the largest collection of Apollo mission artifacts on the West Coast, having played a pivotal role in the Apollo 11 space mission: The Hornet recovered the astronauts and the spacecraft upon their return to earth. The astronauts also spent several days in quarantine aboard the aircraft carrier.

“We send out heartfelt congratulations to these men, who were brave pioneers in the race to land humans on the moon. They are very deserving of the Congressional Gold Medal,” said Randall Ramian, chief executive officer of the USS Hornet Museum. “The Hornet is very pleased to be part of this historic event in our important role as curators of the largest exhibit of Apollo space mission artifacts.”

Bob Fish, Trustee and Apollo curator of the USS Hornet Museum, has been invited to attend the ceremony. He is the author of “Hornet Plus Three: The Story of the Apollo 11 Recovery,” an in-depth look at the complex recovery process. Fish’s book includes rare photographs, along with eyewitness accounts by key-Navy and NASA personnel involved with the mission.

The award is in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of the first lunar landing by man in 1969. In 2009, President Barack Obama signed a bill awarding Congressional gold medals to John Glenn and the crew of Apollo 11. Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were the first men to walk on the moon, while Michael Collins was the Apollo 11 command module pilot. The awarding of the Congressional Gold Medal honors two major moments of the early days of the U.S. space program.

###

About the USS Hornet Museum:
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Media contacts:
Victoria Sanchez De Alba
De Alba Communications
(650) 270-7810
victoria@dealba.net


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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 26, 2011

The U.S. and Great Britain - United in Victory: Commemorate Veterans Day and Remembrance Day Onboard the USS Hornet Museum
USS Hornet Pays Tribute to Veterans of United States, Great Britain and all Veterans with a Special Memorial Ceremony

Alameda, CA – October 26, 2011 – For the first time in its history, the USS Hornet Museum will host a combined United States and Great Britain Veteran’s Day / Remembrance Day Ceremony on Friday, Nov. 11. This special joint memorial service will be held on the USS Hornet to recognize all veterans. The aircraft carrier is docked at the former naval air station in Alameda. The public and the media are invited to take part in this special observance.

In Great Britain, Remembrance Day was known as Armistice Day, the name was changed to Remembrance Day after World War II. It marks the signing of the Armistice which occurred in 1918 on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month bringing an end to World War I.

The ceremony begins at 11 a.m. with the singing of both the American and British National Anthems by the Honey Bee Trio, followed by the Queen’s Club of San Francisco, a private British-American officers club. Bagpiper Jim Marsh will play “The Crags of Tumbledown Mountain,” a tribute to the Scotts Guards. It will be followed by a moment of silence to honor all veterans past and present who fought to defend the freedom we share today. The Hornet band will be performing throughout the day.

Kate McNally of the British Consulate in San Francisco, will be on hand to take part in this special joint service.

Several guest speakers will be featured including: Vice Admiral Manson K. Brown, USCG, Pacific Area Commander and Defense Force West, will pay tribute to the veterans; and Ret. U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Thomas F. Brown III.

David Styles who served in the British Royal Air Force. Styles, a noted British historian in aviation and the automotive field, will talk about how the United States and Great Britain stood “shoulder-to-shoulder” during both the first and second world wars. Later in the day, Styles will debut his latest book, “Two Flights to Victory” which chronicles the two key raids that bookend WWII – the Doolittle Raid in 1942 and the bombing of Hiroshima in 1945. Styles was recently appointed Volunteer Aviation Historian at the California State Military Museum.

The Hornet’s Resident Chaplain John Berger, will pay respect to all veterans with a special service, followed by a wreath tossing ceremony. Flowers will be provided for those who wish to participate.

All military veterans wearing unit jackets, hats or who have proper ID will receive free admission to the day’s events. Admission prices for the general public range from $6-15. Parking is free.

The commemoration is part of the Hornet’s monthly Living Ship Day (weather permitting) when the museum comes to life as an operating aircraft carrier. Visitors can meet former crew, sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet, and enjoy the sights and sounds of naval aviation.

###

About the USS Hornet Museum:
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Media contacts:
Victoria Sanchez De Alba
De Alba Communications
(650) 270-7810
victoria@dealba.net

Heidi Schave
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-8448, ext. 224
heidi.schave@uss-hornet.org

Madeline McEntyre
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-4884, ext. 282
mmcentyre@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 20, 2011

USS Hornet Museum Hosts One-of-a-Kind Exhibit Honoring Nisei Veterans
USS Hornet Pays Tribute to Veterans of United States, Great Britain and all Veterans with a Special Memorial Ceremony

Alameda, CA – October 20, 2011 – The legacy of Nisei veterans during World War II takes center stage in a special exhibit onboard the USS Hornet Museum as part of a special tribute to the contributions of these second generation Japanese Americans.

The exhibit takes on added significance because the U.S. Congress will award the Congressional Gold Medal, the nation’s highest civilian honor, on Nov. 2, 2011 to the veterans of the 100th Infantry Battalion, 442nd Regimental Combat Team and Military Intelligence Service. Both the battalion and combat team were made up mostly of Japanese Americans who fought in Europe, becoming the most decorated unit in U.S. Army history for its size and length of service. The Military Intelligence Service took part in all major Pacific campaigns, playing a key role in defeating Japan. The ceremony will take place at the Capitol in Washington DC. A total of 1,250 Nisei veterans or their family member will receive a replica of the Congressional Gold Medal.

“The awarding of the Congressional Gold Medal is a well-deserved honor to remember the sacrifices made by these veterans,” said Randall Ramian, CEO of The USS Hornet Museum. “We are extremely proud our Japanese American veteran exhibit reflects the bravery and dedication of these extraordinary individuals.”

“To our knowledge, it is the only exhibit of its kind in California and probably in the United States,” said Lawson Sakai, president of the Bay Area Friends and Family of Nisei Veterans and a veteran of 442nd Regimental Combat Team. “The exhibit onboard the Hornet focuses on Nisei veterans and their service to this country.”

The Nisei fought for this country while their parents, family members and friends were imprisoned in relocation camps throughout the United States during World War II.

On Oct. 5, 2010, President Barack Obama signed a bill to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the Nisei Veterans.

The exhibit is open to Hornet Museum visitors without requiring special tours or access. For more information about the Friends and Family of Nisei Veterans, please visit www.ffnv.org.

About the USS Hornet Museum:
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.usshornet. org or call (510) 521-8448.

###

Media contacts:
Victoria Sanchez De Alba
De Alba Communications
(650) 270-7810
victoria@dealba.net

Brian Shiroyama - Vice President
Friends and Family of Nisei Veterans
(408) 896-1021
bshiroyama@gmail.com

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 04, 2011

Ship of Spirits: A Special Presentation on the Spirits
That Still Call the USS Hornet Home

Alameda, CA – October 04, 2011 – Is the USS Hornet haunted? Do you dare explore the Hornet afterhours with only a flashlight as your guide?

The USS Hornet will present Ship of Spirits, featuring a special lecture by psychic and parapsychologist Dr. Pamela Heath, at 7:00 p.m. - midnight, Fri., Oct. 28. Cost is $45 per person and space is limited. To purchase tickets call (510) 521-8448 x 282.

Dr. Heath has been investigating the Hornet and its reported paranormal activity for more than 13 years. She has written numerous books, including “Mind-Matter Interaction: Study into the phenomena of psychokinetic.” She was also a judge on the Travel Channel’s “Paranormal Challenge.”

Following the lecture, a haunted flashlight tour of areas reported to be home to spirits that never left the ship as well as areas not yet open to the general public will be given. Areas that will be part of the ghost tour are:

Combat Information Center (CIC) 
Message Center (Radio Central) 
Mess Deck 
Sidewinder Missile Assembly Room 
Brig 
Catapult Machinery Room 
Sick Bay 
Captain and Admiral’s In Port State Rooms 
Flight Deck and Island 
Focsle and Secondary Con

Can’t attend the lecture? The USS Hornet will be holding its annual Monster Bash on Oct. 29 from 7:30 p.m. to midnight on the ship located at 707 W. Hornet Ave., Pier 3, Alameda.

The entire family will have a frightfully good time throughout the night with haunted tours, dancing and a costume contest. Food and beverages will be available for purchase along with a cash bar.

Guests will be able to dance the night away to the unique, multi-decade sound of The Cocktail Monkeys.

As you explore the decks of the ship be careful not to take a wrong turn and end up at the Haunted Hospital where evil doctors will be conducting weird experiments that could go horribly wrong and you never know who might be their next patient.

Haunted fun and children’s activities start at 7:30pm, with the band performing from 8:00pm - midnight. To purchase tickets call (510) 521-8448 x 282. Tickets are $20 for adults ($25 at the door) and $10 for kids. www.hornetevents.com.

Proceeds from Monster Bash and other events benefit the USS Hornet Museums’ educational mission.

About the USS Hornet Museum:
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

###

Media contacts:
Victoria Sanchez De Alba
De Alba Communications
(650) 270-7810
victoria@dealba.net

Heidi Schave
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-8448, ext. 224
heidi.schave@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 1, 2011

Celebrate Halloween with Monster Bash Aboard the USS Hornet Museum

Alameda CA, October 1, 2011 –Rumors have persisted that spirits roam the decks of the USS Hornet. Now the public has the chance to find out if the aircraft carrier is indeed haunted and at the same time have a spooktacular good time at the pre-Halloween Monster Bash Party.

The USS Hornet Museum will host its annual Monster Bash on Saturday, Oct. 29 from 7:30 p.m. to midnight onboard the historic ship located at 707 W. Hornet Ave. at Pier 3 in Alameda, California.

The entire family will have a frightfully good time throughout the night with haunted tours, dancing and a costume contest. Food and beverages will be available for purchase along with a cash bar.

Guests will be able to dance the night away to the unique, multi-decade sound of The Cocktail Monkeys.

As you explore the decks of the ship be careful not to take a wrong turn and end up at the Haunted Hospital where evil doctors will be conducting weird experiments that could go horribly wrong and you never know who might be their next patient.

If you’re looking for something a little scarier, head over to Elvira’s “Fright Simulator” which is guaranteed to give party-goers a good jolt. Kids can even get into the act by creating ghoulish crafts.

Both adults and kids can have fun and participate in the costume contest.

Haunted fun and children’s activities start at 7:30pm, with the band performing from 8:00pm - midnight. To purchase tickets call (510) 521-8448 x 282. Tickets are $20 for adults ($25 at the door) and $10 for kids. www.hornetevents.com.

Proceeds from Monster Bash and other events benefit the USS Hornet Museums’ educational mission.

About the USS Hornet Museum:
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

###

Media contacts:
Victoria Sanchez De Alba
De Alba Communications
(650) 270-7810
victoria@dealba.net

Heidi Schave
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-8448, ext. 224
heidi.schave@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 1, 2011

Honoring Our Heroes: 9/11 Remembrance Onboard the USS Hornet Museum
Museum’s Living Ship Series Pays Tribute to East Bay First Responders with a Special 9/11
Memorial Ceremony and Events

Alameda CA, September 1, 2011 – In commemoration of the 10 year anniversary of 9/11, the USS Hornet Museum will pay tribute to San Francisco Bay Area First Responders during a special ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 17 during Living Ship Day.

The special memorial service begins at 1 p.m. and will be led by Hornet Chaplain John Berger, a WWII veteran and Bronze Star recipient. Following the service a wreath will be tossed into the water to commemorate those who lives were lost.

The guest speaker is Mike Noonan, Alameda Chief of Police. Chief Noonan joined the Alameda Police Department in May 1986. During the past 25 years, Noonan has worked a variety of assignments. He received numerous promotions until being named Chief of Police in 2011.

In appreciation of their service, firefighters, police officers, Coast Guard personnel, and other emergency responders with I.D. and their immediate families will receive complimentary admission to the museum.

The public is invited to this special ceremony. Numerous activities will be available for the entire family following the ceremony, including an opportunity for visitors to meet members of the area’s first responders and personally thank them for their service.

Among the numerous activities scheduled are a big band performance by the Hornet Band, rescue demonstrations, activities for the children and much more.

Living Ship Day aboard the Hornet offers something for everyone. The museum comes to life as an operating aircraft carrier with flight simulations between 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. as aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed into launch position. Visitors can meet former crew, sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet, and enjoy the sights and sounds of naval aviation. There will also be a Big Band performance, at noon.

Living Ship Day demonstrations are held on the third Saturday of most months. Normal museum hours and admission prices apply. Museum Members receive free admission. Ample free parking is available across from the pier. The USS Hornet Museum is located at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3 in Alameda.

###

About the USS Hornet Museum:
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Media contacts:
Victoria Sanchez De Alba
De Alba Communications
(650) 270-7810
victoria@dealba.net

Heidi Schave
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-8448, ext. 224
heidi.schave@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – August 5, 2011

Commemorate ‘Korea: The Forgotten War,’ on the USS Hornett
Museum’s Living Ship Series Remembers the Korean War by Honoring Korean Veterans
Saturday, August 27, 2011 – Living Ship Day

ALAMEDA , CA, August 5, 2011 – The USS Hornet honors Korean War veterans with its tribute “The Korean War: Forgotten no longer” during its monthly Living Ship Day series on Aug. 27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The day will feature firsthand accounts from naval pilots. Attendees will also learn how Gen. Douglas MacArthur and the U.S. Forces bravely defended South Korea from the invading communist army.

The event features two key speakers with a special introduction by Korean War Naval Ace Pilot and Rear Admiral Vince Anzilotti, who was awarded the Legion Merit Medal and five Navy Commendation Medals.
The day’s keynote speakers include:

Richard Fred Kaufman PhD, of Sacramento, recipient of the distinguished Flying Cross Medal, six Air Medals, two Navy Commendations, and three Korean Service Medals with the Korean Presidential Citation. He is also a retired Professor from California State University Sacramento. His pursuit of an academic career in later years led to a number of published articles, and a film production titled “A Carrier Pilot in the Forgotten War.”

Daniel Vencill PhD, of Oakland currently teaches economics at San Francisco Sate University. Vencill received his doctorate from Stanford University and has published over 60 articles in his academic career. He is a WWII lecturer focusing on the Pacific Theater and has taught onboard Hornet since 2009. He will provide an enriching talk about General MacArthur and what we have learned from the Korean War Conflict.

In addition, the public will have the opportunity to speak with and meet other Korean War Veterans throughout the day.

The media and public are invited onboard for an array of special events that will appeal to people of all ages, including families with children. Among the day’s highlights are a musical performance from the Honey Bee Trio, Korean Era Military Displays and Reenactors/Historical actors provided by the Santa Cruz Living History Group.

Living Ship Day aboard the Hornet offers something for everyone. The museum comes to life as an operating aircraft carrier with flight simulations between 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. as aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed into launch position. Visitors can meet former crew, sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet, and enjoy the sights and sounds of naval aviation. There will also be a Big Band performance, at 1:00 pm.

Living Ship Day demonstrations are held on the third Saturday of most months. Normal museum hours and admission prices apply. Ample free parking is available across from the pier. The USS Hornet Museum is located at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3 in Alameda.

# # #

About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Media Contacts:
Victoria Sanchez De Alba
De Alba Communications
(650) 270-7810 victoria@dealba.net

Heidi Schave
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-8448, ext. 224 heidi.schave@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 4, 2011

Celebrate ‘Return to Earth,’ the 42nd Anniversary
of the Apollo 11 Splashdown on the USS Hornet
The Museum’s Living Ship Series Commemorates Recovery of Apollo 11 and Apollo 12
Lunar Missions by Unveiling a New Apollo Exhibit Artifact
Saturday, July 23, 2011 – Living Ship Day

ALAMEDA , CA, July 4, 2011 – Relive the heyday of the U.S. space program as the USS Hornet celebrates the 42nd anniversary of the Apollo 11 ‘Return to Earth’ Splashdown on July 23. The commemoration is part of the USS Hornet Museum’s “Living Ship Day” series. The Hornet played a vital role in the Apollo 11 and 12 lunar missions having recovered the astronauts upon returning from the moon. Among the special guests will be celebrated author and trustee of the Hornet, Robert Fish who will discuss his book, “Hornet Plus Three – The Story of Apollo 11 Recovery.”

From 10am – 5pm, the public and media are invited onboard for a series of special events that will appeal to people of all ages, including families with children. The day’s highlights include the unveiling of a new piece for the Apollo exhibit housed on the Hornet. The three original “Hornet Plus Three” signs that hung on the Mobil Quarantine Facility or MQF will be on permanent display in the exhibit. The MQF was where the astronauts spent their first weeks upon returning from the moon.

In addition to the permanent exhibits, an astronaut space suit display, courtesy of NASA Ames, will be available for viewing. Historic Apollo themed tours of the ship will also be given.

The Hornet is home to the largest collection of Apollo artifacts on the West Coast.

Living Ship Day aboard the Hornet offers something for everyone. The museum comes to life as an operating aircraft carrier with flight simulations between 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. as aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed into launch position. Visitors can meet former crew, sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet, and enjoy the sights and sounds of naval aviation. There will also be a Big Band Performance, at 1:00 pm.

Living Ship Day demonstrations are held on the third Saturday of most months. Normal museum hours and admission prices apply. Ample free parking is available across from the pier. The USS Hornet Museum is located at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3 in Alameda.

# # #

About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Media Contacts:
Victoria Sanchez De Alba
De Alba Communications
(650) 270-7810 victoria@dealba.net

Heidi Schave
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-8448, ext. 224 heidi.schave@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 14, 2011

Celebrate Fourth of July on the Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet
Monday, July 4, 2011 – Independance Day

ALAMEDA , CA – The USS Hornet is hosting its annual family friendly Independence Day celebration from 1 to 9 p.m. on Monday, July 4, featuring live music on the flight deck, interactive games for all ages, and a bounce house for kids. In the evening, visitors enjoy panoramic views of Bay Area fireworks from the flight deck.

The ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda. There is ample free parking across from the pier.

Throughout the day, guests are welcome to explore the many decks of the legendary aircraft carrier. Open for public tour are the flight deck, hangar bays, engine room, flight operations, captain’s bridge, ship’s hospital, combat information center and torpedo shop. Exhibits include the West Coast’s largest Apollo Moon Mission display and more than a dozen aircraft ranging from WWII vintage to modern era. Visitors can get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and a helicopter from the “Apollo 13” movie.

The USS Hornet Museum opens at noon and will offer plenty of interactive activities from 1-8 p.m. A variety of carnival and table-top games will be located inside the Hangar Deck. On the Flight Deck, there will be a bounce house and inflatable games for all ages. One of the highlights is a chance to ride the flight simulator through a jet fighter mission.

The highlight of the family-friendly event is a concert on the Flight Deck starting at 2 p.m. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay while listening to live music on the ship’s flight deck. Scheduled bands will perform a wide variety of music, including Celtic rock by Tempest, oldies Rock ‘n’ Roll by Eddie & the Boppers, ‘60s to present day rock music by the Gabe Duffin Band, and classic rock by the Mighty NepTunes. Following the concert, guests are welcome to remain on the Flight Deck to watch panoramic views of Bay Area fireworks.

A great selection of food, beer and wine will be available for purchase during the event.

All-day admission is $25 for adults ($20 in advance) and $10 for children ages 5-17; museum members receive free admission. Family & Friends Membership for one year is $75.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call 510-521-8448 x 282 or visit www.hornetevents.com

# # #

About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448. Proceeds from the Fourth of July celebration and other events benefit the museum’s educational mission.

Media Contact: Madeline McEntyre
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-8448 ext. 282 MMcentyre@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 06, 2011

Stories of Glory: USS Hornet Museum Pays Tribute to WWII Veterans
Largest gathering of local surviving WWII veterans
Sunday, June 19, 2011 – Fathers' Day

ALAMEDA , CA – As part of its Living Ship Day series, the USS Hornet Museum will honor dozens of Bay Area WWII veterans on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 19. “Stories of Glory” will be one of the largest gatherings of local surviving WWII veterans, who will represent all branches of the United States Armed Forces. The USS Hornet is located at 707 W. Hornet Ave., Pier 3, in Alameda.

The day will feature two key speakers: Sgt. Francis “Jeep” Sanza of Napa, personal jeep driver to General Patton in Europe, and Lt. Cmdr. Ted Robinson of Sacramento, one of President John F. Kennedy’s rescuers after his PT-109 boat was sunk in 1943 and noted author of Water in my Veins: The Pauper Who Helped Save a President. Other veterans will also be available for a special “meet and greet” throughout the day; including four Tuskegee Airmen, a survivor of the USS Indianapolis sinking, and the first Ace from the famed “Flying Tigers” squadron.

Living Ship Day is a special event onboard Hornet that offers something for everyone. The museum comes to life as an operating aircraft carrier with flight simulations between 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. as aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed into launch position. Visitors can meet former crew, sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet, and enjoy the sights and sounds of naval aviation. There will also be big band music by The Hornet Band at noon, followed by the Singing Blue Stars at 12:30 p.m.

Living Ship Day demonstrations are held on the third Saturday of most months. Normal museum hours and admission prices apply. Ample free parking is available across the street from the pier. The USS Hornet Museum is located at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3 in Alameda.

# # #

About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448

Media Contact: Heidi Schave
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-8448 ext. 224 heidi.schave@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 11, 2011

Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet Museum to Commemorate WWII Doolittle Raid
Special Recognition to Navy Captain Stephen Jurika
Saturday, April 16, 2011

ALAMEDA – The USS Hornet Museum will commemorate the 69th anniversary of the Doolittle Raid, America’s heroic World War II bombing raid of Tokyo on Saturday, April 16, during the aircraft carrier’s special “Living Ship Day.” The day-long tribute will feature guest speakers and special exhibits honoring the Doolittle Raid and its participants, with a special focus on former Bay Area resident Captain Stephen Jurika.

The “Doolittle Raiders” were an elite group of airmen who executed an historic, daytime air raid against Tokyo in WWII led by legendary pilot Lt. Colonel Jimmy Doolittle, USAAF (who was born in Alameda). Bob Fish, USS Hornet Museum historian, noted, “the initial plan for the raid, however, arose from the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Ernest King, with great assistance from then-Lt. Stephen Jurika, the Air Intelligence Officer of the USS Hornet CV-8.” The Hornet Museum’s special Living Ship Day tribute will unveil – for the first time ever -- the full extent of the Navy’s role in planning and executing this mission.

The public program at 1 p.m. will feature speakers who will be announced at a later date. The Living Ship Day events include flight simulations between 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., when the museum comes to life as an operating aircraft carrier. Visitors get to meet former crew, sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet, enjoy the sights and sounds of naval aviation and witness simulated flight operations as aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed into launch position.

Living Ship Day demonstrations are held on the third Saturday of most months. Normal museum admission prices will apply. Ample free parking is available across the street from the pier. The USS Hornet Museum is located at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3 in Alameda.

The Hornet Museum decided to pay tribute to the Doolittle Raid in April to commemorate the 69th anniversary of the historically important attack. The raid has special significance to the museum because its predecessor ship, Hornet CV-8, was the carrier that launched this daring raid off the Japanese coast. Of special significance to Alameda, sixteen B-25 bombers, their five-man volunteer crews, and maintenance personnel were loaded aboard the Hornet CV-8 at Alameda Naval Air Station on April 1, 1942, adjacent to where the USS Hornet museum is located today.

The next day, the Hornet and her escorts sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge, reaching their destination two weeks later. On April 18, the Army Air Force crews flew 650 nautical miles from their launch point in the Pacific, dropped their bombs on several Japanese cities and flew on to China where many crash landed.

The bombing gave a tremendous psychological boost to Americans, still reeling from the attack on Pearl Harbor. The Japanese military’s hasty response was to attack Midway Island, where its navy was soundly defeated. Many historians consider the Doolittle Raid to be a turning point in the war.

Captain Jurika’s role in the raid was portrayed in the 1944 hit movie “Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo” by actor Leon Ames. He spent much of his later life in the South Bay area. His final Navy assignment was Commanding Officer of the Stanford University NROTC program from 1959- 1962. After retiring from the Navy, he taught political science classes at Stanford University (1962-1964), then the University of Santa Clara (1964-1975) and finally at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey (1975-1986). He earned a Ph.D. while at Stanford and was a research scholar at the Hoover Institution from 1980 until 1986. Captain Jurika died in 1993, having been awarded sixteen medals including the Navy Cross, Silver Star, Legion of Merit, and two Navy Commendations.

# # #

About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448

Publicist:  Elizabeth Rajs
Raise Communication
(925) 895-4118 elizabeth@raisecommunication.com
 
Media Contact: Heidi Schave
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-8448 ext. 224 heidi.schave@uss-hornet.org

Media Contact: Madeline McEntyre
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-8448 ext. 282 mmcentyre@uss-hornet.org

Curator Contact: Bob Fish
USS Hornet Museum
(925) 831-8294 bob.fish@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – March 15, 2011

USS Hornet Museum Confirms Willows connection to Doolittle Raid
Commemorating the WWII Raid on Saturday, April 16
Saturday, April 16, 2011

ALAMEDA – A historian from the USS Hornet Museum in Alameda has uncovered documents that prove the Doolittle Raiders used the Willows airfield to practice for their daring WWII mission.

The “Doolittle Raiders” were an elite group of 80 U.S. Army airmen who executed an historic, daytime air raid against Tokyo in April, 1942 led by legendary aviator Lt. Colonel Jimmy Doolittle.

Hornet historian Bob Fish says: “It is well documented that the B-25 bombers went through a maintenance cycle at the Sacramento Air Deport (at McClellan AFB) from March 26 to March 31 in 1942. What is not well known is that some of the bombers were flown to Willows after this maintenance period so the Army pilots could check each aircraft’s performance and brush up on their short-field take-off procedures.”

Rumors of this activity have been whispered throughout the central valley for years. But it was a chance find by one of the Raider’s families that led to the research breakthrough. Cindy Chal, the daughter of raider Richard Cole, found a copy of an official report written by Navy Lt. Henry Miller in May, 1942. It was passed to travel writer Susan Zimmerman who forwarded it to Mr. Fish at the Hornet. Miller taught the raider pilots special techniques that allowed them to launch their large aircraft from the small flight deck of an aircraft carrier. In his report Miller states, “Practice was given at Eglin Field, Florida and at Willows, Calif., which is eighty-five (85) miles north of Sacramento, Calif.” He also expanded this claim in an oral history recorded 30 years later.

The USS Hornet Museum will commemorate the 69th anniversary of the Doolittle Raid, America’s daring World War II bombing raid of Tokyo, on Saturday, April 16, during the aircraft carrier’s special “Living Ship Day.” The day-long tribute will feature guest speakers and special exhibits honoring the Doolittle Raid and its participants.

The Hornet Museum commemorates the Doolittle Raid in April every year. The raid has special significance to the museum and to Alameda. The museum’s predecessor ship, Hornet CV-8, was the carrier that launched this daring raid. The sixteen B-25 bombers, their five-man volunteer crews, and maintenance personnel were loaded aboard the Hornet CV-8 at Alameda Naval Air Station on April 1, 1942, after the practice was completed at Willows.

The next day, the Hornet and her escorts sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge, reaching their destination two weeks later. On April 18, the Army Air Force crews flew 650 nautical miles from their launch point in the Pacific, dropped their bombs on several Japanese cities and flew on to China where many crash landed.

The bombing gave a tremendous psychological boost to Americans, still reeling from the attack on Pearl Harbor. Many historians consider the Doolittle Raid to be a key event in the Pacific war.

# # #

About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular museum admission is $6-$15 for youths through adults and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448

Publicist:  Elizabeth Rajs
Raise Communication
(925) 895-4118 elizabeth@raisecommunication.com

Curator Contact: Bob Fish
USS Hornet Museum
(925) 831-8294 bob.fish@uss-hornet.org
 
Media Contact: Heidi Schave
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-8448 ext. 224 heidi.schave@uss-hornet.org


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Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet Museum Debuts Mars Rover Exhibit in Northern California
Saturday, September 18, 2010

ALAMEDA – The USS Hornet Museum is host to a replica of the Mars Exploration Rovers. Produced by NASA and Jet Propulsion Labs (JPL), the original, twin Mars Exploration Rovers, known as Spirit and Opportunity, represent the most successful interplanetary exploration efforts to date. The two Rovers that have been assigned to research the history of water on Mars are currently working into their 6th year of service on the Red Planet.

The USS Hornet Museum invites families and enthusiasts from across Northern California to join us for the public unveiling of this limited-time exhibit. Sponsored by Virgin Galactic, the exhibit will be unveiled to the public on Saturday, September 18th at 1 pm during the Museum’s popular monthly event, Living Ship Day. “Virgin Galactic is proud to sponsor this momentous occasion,” says Carolyn Wincer, the company’s Head of Sales and Tourism Development. “Times like this remind us that anything is possible.” In addition, the originators of Rocky Road ice cream, Fentons Creamery, have donated their flagship product for our guests’ enjoyment (while supplies last).

The USS Hornet has the distinction of working with NASA since 1969 when the vessel acted as the Primary Recovery Ship for both the Apollo 11 and Apollo 12 Moon missions. The Mars Rover replica will be showcased alongside the museum's permanent collection of Apollo-related artifacts, which includes a flown Command Module, an astronaut Mobile Quarantine Facility, and the recovery helicopter from the film, “Apollo 13.” By hosting the NASA/JPL Mars Rover, the USS Hornet Museum is maintaining its role in educating visitors on both the past and present achievements in humanity’s endeavors into space.

“Many Bay Area technology companies have been involved in designing, building, and supporting NASA programs since the dawn of space exploration. With the Hornet’s role in past NASA missions and the presence of these businesses, it is our duty to bring this exhibit to the Bay Area,” says Randall Ramian, the Museum’s CEO.

# # #

About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, whose aim is to inspire people of all ages by providing them with an unrivaled experience into the world of naval history, science, and space technology. The USS Hornet is one of the most decorated aircraft carriers in U.S. history, playing pivotal roles in World War II and NASA’s Apollo missions. Today, the vessel serves the public as a sea, air, and space museum, pioneering new ways to inspire and empower future generations. The museum is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and located at 707 W. Hornet Ave., Pier 3, in Alameda, CA. (510) 521-8448. http://www.uss-hornet.org .

About Virgin Galactic
Virgin Galactic is the world’s first spaceline. Virgin Galactic was established by Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group to undertake the challenge of making private space travel available to everyone. www.virgingalactic.com

About Fentons Creamery
Founded in Oakland, CA in 1894, Fentons Creamery is a landmark institution that has served generations its famous handcrafted ice creams and sauces. www.fentonscreamery.com

Publicist:  Elizabeth Rajs
Raise Communication
(925) 895-4118 elizabeth@raisecommunication.com
 
Event contact: Rick Thom
USS Hornet Museum
(510) 521-8448 x 268 rick.thom@uss-hornet.org


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Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet Museum Commemorates V-J Day
65th Anniversary of World War II’s Victory in Japan Day
Saturday, August 14, 2010

The Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet Museum will commemorate the 65th Anniversary of World War II’s Victory in Japan Day in a Living Ship Day demonstration from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 14, onboard the ship berthed at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3, in Alameda, CA. Museum admission is $15 for adults and $6 for children 5-17. There is ample free parking. The museum is open daily, except Tuesday, from 10 am to 4 pm.
For information about all events call (510) 521-8448 and visit www.hornetevents.com.

“Doolittle’s Raiders” were an elite group of airmen who executed an historic, daytime air raid against Tokyo in WWII led by legendary pilot Lt. Colonel Jimmy Doolittle, USAAF, who was born in Alameda.

The program at 2 p.m. will feature David Styles, Historian and Educator. Mr. Styles presentation will tell the story of the Pacific Campaign within the story of the first and last bombing missions against Japan in World War II.

On April 1, 1942, sixteen B-25 bombers, their five-man volunteer crews, and maintenance personnel were loaded onto the USS Hornet CV-8 at Pier 2, Alameda Naval Air Station. The next day, the Hornet and her escorts sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge for their date with destiny. On April 18, the Raiders flew 650 miles from their launch point in the Pacific, dropped their bombs on several Japanese cities and flew on to China where many crash landed.

Although the raid did little military damage, the Japanese government was deeply embarrassed. The bombing was a tremendous psychological victory for America, still reeling from the attack on Pearl Harbor. The Japanese military's hasty response was to attack Midway Island, which proved disastrous when their Navy was soundly defeated.

Mr. Styles relates a compelling story of a series of encounters of chance connecting Colonel Doolittle and Paul Tibbets, the pilot of the Enola Gay, the B-29 that dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945.

The program will conclude with a wreath ceremony commemorating and honoring those who served and those who were lost in the fight for victory in the Pacific.

There will be flight simulations between 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. The museum will come to life as an operating aircraft carrier. Visitors will participate in mission briefings, meet former crew, sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet, enjoy the sights and sounds of naval aviation and witness simulated flight operations as aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed into launch position.

The primary significance of having the Doolittle Raid commemoration on the USS Hornet Museum at Alameda Point is twofold. The current Hornet’s predecessor ship, Hornet-CV8, launched this daring raid, and the raid personnel and their equipment were loaded aboard the Hornet CV-8 at Alameda Point, directly adjacent to where the USS Hornet museum is located.

Living Ship Day demonstrations are held on the third Saturday of most months.

# # #

About the USS Hornet Museum
The Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization with the goal of inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the USS Hornet is permanently docked at the former Naval Air Station in Alameda and is open to the public for an admission fee. The museum is open daily, except Tuesdays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Publicist:  Denise Howe, Pacific Communications
Publicity for Nonprofit Organizations
(925) 200-1833  denisehowe2@comcast.net
 
Event contact: Danner Doud-Martin, Director of Events
USS Hornet Museum, (510) 521-8448 x 211
danner.doud-martin@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 17, 2010

The World-Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra to play
Onboard the Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet
Sunday, July 17, 2010

The World-Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra, the most popular and sought-after big band in the world for both concert and swing dance engagements, will play onboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet on Saturday, July 17th. Ticket prices for each night start at $45 and benefit the USS Hornet Museum. Ample free parking is available across the street from the pier. The USS Hornet Museum is located at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3 in Alameda.

Doors open at 7 p.m. with free dance lessons. The Glenn Miller Orchestra will play from 8 p.m. to midnight with dancing on three large dance floors on the enclosed hangar deck. The Singing Blue Stars will perform a tribute to the Andrews Sisters during intermission. Period attire is encouraged.

Cabaret Reserved seating--premium reserved tables by the dance floor with a great view in front of the stage--are $95 per person. Reserved seating near the dance floor is $68 per person. General admission is $45 per person. If the event is not sold out, general admission tickets will be available at the door for $50 per person. All food and drink is sold separate from admission price.

Voted as the best place to hear and dance to swing music by Diablo Magazine, the USS Hornet Museum is the hottest dance place in the Bay Area and attracts “swing-era” crowds in excess of 1,200 people.

This is the USS Hornet's premiere big band dance event that sells out early so order tickets today. Tickets can be ordered online at www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448 x 282 during the week.

The legendary Glenn Miller was one of the most successful of all the bandleaders back in the Swing era of the ‘30s and ‘40s. His recordings of "In the Mood", "Chattanooga Choo Choo", "A String of Pearls", "Moonlight Serenade", and "Tuxedo Junction" were all major hit records.

Permanently docked at the former Naval Air Station in Alameda, the aircraft carrier HORNET features three large dance floors, cash bars, gourmet food concession, and ample free parking. Dancing is on the enclosed hangar deck of the ship.

For more information, call (510) 521-8448 ext 282 or visit www.uss-hornet.org.

# # #

About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular museum admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Publicist:  Denise Howe, Pacific Communications
Publicity for Nonprofit Organizations
(925) 200-1833  denisehowe2@comcast.net
 
Event contact: Danner Doud-Martin, Director of Events
USS Hornet Museum, (510) 521-8448 x 211
danner.doud-martin@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 8, 2010

Independence Day - 2010
Fourth of July Celebration onboard the Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet
Sunday, July 4, 2010

Celebrate Independence Day, this exciting patriotic holiday, on a ship that affected the course of history.
 
The USS Hornet Museum in Alameda hosts its annual Independence Day party on Sunday, July 4, 2010 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.  The family event features live music on the flight deck, interactive games for all ages, and a bounce house for kids. Tours of the famous aircraft carrier will be available throughout during the day until 8 pm. In the evening visitors can watch panoramic views of Bay Area fireworks from the flight deck.
 
The USS Hornet Museum will offer plenty of interactive activities starting at 1 p.m. A variety of carnival and table-top games will be located inside the Hangar Deck. On the Flight Deck, there will be a bounce house and inflatable games for all ages. Don’t miss a chance to ride the flight simulator through a jet fighter mission.
 
Throughout the day, guests are welcome to explore the many decks of the legendary aircraft carrier. Open for public tour are the flight deck, hangar bays, engine room, flight operations, captain’s bridge, ship’s hospital, and torpedo shop. Exhibits include the West Coast’s largest Apollo Moon Mission Recovery display and more than a dozen aircraft ranging from WWII vintage to modern era. Visitors can get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and a helicopter from the “Apollo 13” movie.
 
The highlight of the family-friendly event is a concert on the Flight Deck starting at 2 p.m. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay while listening to live music on the ship’s flight deck. Scheduled bands will perform lively dance music including, The Mighty NepTunes, country rock by The Bell Brothers, Celtic rock by Tempest, and our headliner, 3 O’clock Jump.
 
Following the concert, guests are welcome to remain on the Flight Deck to watch panoramic views of Bay Area fireworks. A great selection of food, beer and wine will be available for purchase during the event.
 
All-day admission is $25 for adults ($20 in advance) and $10 for children ages 5-17; museum members receive free admission. Family & Friends Membership for one year is $75. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 510-521-8448 x 282 or visit www.uss-hornet.org.
 
The ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA and there is ample free parking.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The aircraft carrier USS Hornet is a registered State and National Historic Landmark. The ship participated in two of the 20th century’s most memorable events – WWII and the Apollo 11 moon mission.
 
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology firsthand. Proceeds from the Fourth of July Party and other events benefit its educational mission.

Publicist:  Denise Howe, Pacific Communications
Publicity for Nonprofit Organizations
(925) 200-1833  denisehowe2@comcast.net
 
Event contact: Danner Doud-Martin, Director of Events
USS Hornet Museum, (510) 521-8448 x 211
danner.doud-martin@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 20, 2010

USS Hornet Museum Presents a Military Tribute, “Heroes of the Pacific”
Viewing Party for HBO’s Finale of “The Pacific” in the San Francisco Bay Area
Sunday, May 16, 2010

ALAMEDA – The USS Hornet Museum presents a special military tribute, “Heroes of the Pacific.” This exclusive, one-time event will be held aboard the USS Hornet Museum on Sunday, May 16th starting at 3:30 pm. “Heroes of the Pacific,” featuring HBO’s acclaimed series “The Pacific,” will be host to a screening of the miniseries premiere episode as well as the miniseries finale.

In addition to the screenings, “Heroes of the Pacific” participants include retired Marine, Chuck Tatum, an Iwo Jima survivor and Stockton resident, who wrote “Red Blood, Black Sand,” one of several books “The Pacific” is based in part on; Andy Popenoe, president of the Jimmy Doolittle Air and Space Museum and retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant; and World War II veterans. Other activities include ship tours, giveaways, and a raffle. The event is free; however, all donations received will benefit the USS Hornet and the museum’s upcoming World War II Doolittle Raid Exhibit.

 “Hornet contributed significantly to victory in the Pacific. This is going to be our largest military event of the year to honor the sacrifices veterans have made to our country and our way of giving thanks to the military, who have meant so much to the San Francisco Bay Area community,” said Randall Ramian, the CEO of the USS Hornet Museum.

Veterans, active personnel, and military leadership from around the Bay Area will be invited to attend. Limited seating is available to the general public. In addition, organizations such as Marines Memorial Club, Navy Leagues, the Coast Guard, former crewmembers, Hornet members as well as other groups are also invited to attend. An RSVP by April 30th is required to pacific@uss-hornet.org.

“The Pacific” is produced by actor Tom Hanks, director Steven Spielberg, and Gary Goetzman, the creators of HBO’s Emmy-award winning series, “Band of Brothers.” This 10-part miniseries follows three U.S. Marines, each on their own journey of survival through the Pacific Theater waged against Japanese Forces on the Pacific islands during the desperate days of World War II.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501c(3) organization with the goal of inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology. The aircraft carrier is docked permanently at the former Naval Air Station in Alameda and is open to the public daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The ship is berthed at 707 W. Hornet Ave, Pier 3, in Alameda, CA. Ample free parking. The website is at www.uss-hornet.org

Media Contact: Felicia Hsieh, (510) 521-8448 x 307 or felicia.hsieh@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – March 26, 2010

The Doolittle Raid and the Pacific Remembered
Saturday, April 17, 2010

The USS Hornet Museum will commemorate the “Doolittle Raid” with a Living Ship Day demonstration from 11:00am to 3:00pm on Saturday, April 17, onboard the historic aircraft carrier Hornet CVS-12. Museum admission is $14 for adults and $6 for children 5-17. There is ample free parking. For information about the event, call (510) 521-8448 or visit www.hornetevents.com.

“Doolittle’s Raiders” were an elite group of airmen who executed a historic, daytime air raid against Tokyo in WWII and were led by legendary pilot Lt. Colonel Jimmy Doolittle, USAAF, who was born in Alameda.

In honor of the extraordinary men who risked their lives in the Doolittle Raid, the USS Hornet CVS-12 will come to life as an operating aircraft carrier. Visitors will enjoy the sights and sounds of naval aviation while witnessing simulated flight operations as aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed into launch position. Visitors can also participate in mission briefings, meet former crew, and sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet.

A special program at 1:00pm will feature Oral Moore, rear seat gunner onboard the USS Hornet CV-8 the night the B-25 bombers were loaded onto the ship, and Andy Popenoe, historian of the Jimmy Doolittle Air and Space Museum located at Travis AFB.

Oral Moore joined the Navy when he was 18 years old. He became a rear seat gunner and was part of the original crew assigned to USS Hornet CV-8 in 1940. In April 1942, he watched as the B-25’s were loaded on board Hornet and then watched as Colonel Jimmy Doolittle and his air crew took off on their secret mission. Although he never met Colonel Doolittle, he became friendly with some of the crew. On October 27, 1942, Moore flew off Hornet the day it was sunk during the Battle of Santa Cruz and safely landed on the USS Enterprise. He was commissioned in 1946 to serve one year on the USS Boxer. In 1947 he was assigned to inactive duty and went on to get his degree as a civil engineer.

Andy Popenoe served 17 years in the Air Force with 4.5 years in Vietnam participating in 26 of the 27 total campaigns, flying 174 combat missions, and has numerous decorations. He retired from Travis Air Force Base as a command chief master sergeant. After leaving the Air Force, he went on to become president and CEO of ABI, a marine hardware company. He has served for 28 years on the board of directors of Travis Credit Union, the 11th largest in California, and is an avid historian on aviation history in America. He has lived with his family in Fairfield since 1974.

The Doolittle Raid
The primary significance of having the Doolittle Raid commemoration on the USS Hornet CVS-12 at Alameda Point is two-fold: 1) The current Hornet’s predecessor ship, Hornet CV-8, launched this daring raid, and 2) the flight personnel and their equipment were loaded aboard Hornet CV-8 at Alameda Point, directly adjacent to where the USS Hornet museum is now located.

On April 1, 1942, sixteen B-25 bombers, their five-man volunteer crews, and maintenance personnel were loaded onto the USS Hornet CV-8 at Alameda Naval Air Station. The next day, the Hornet and her escorts sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge for their date with destiny. On April 18, the Raiders flew 650 miles from their launch point in the Pacific, dropped their bombs on several Japanese cities and flew on to China where many crash landed.

Although the raid did little military damage, the Japanese government was deeply embarrassed. The bombing was a tremendous psychological victory for America, still reeling from the attack on Pearl Harbor. The Japanese military's hasty response was to attack Midway Island, which proved disastrous when their Navy was soundly defeated.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The Aircraft Carrier Hornet Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. The ship is open to the public daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Regular admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier.

Included in the numerous exhibits on the USS Hornet are 16 Navy and Marine aircraft and spacecraft, ranging from WWII to the modern era -- get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and an authentic Apollo space capsule. Ship compartments open for public touring include Combat Information Center, Captain’s Bridge, Flight Deck Control, Hangar Deck, Pilot Ready Rooms, Ship’s Hospital, Torpedo Shop, Officers’ Quarters, and the newly open Post Office. Living Ship Day demonstrations are held on the third Saturday of most months.

A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448 x0.

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November 12, 2009 - For Immediate Release

DANCE LIKE A STAR ABOARD THE USS HORNET!
New Year’s Eve Gala
Thursday, December 31, 2009

Ring in a new year aboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet. Enjoy live music, party favors, a silent auction, cash bars and food concessions, midnight countdown, and a spectacular view of the Bay Area skyline. The ultimate New Year’s Eve Party will be held on the enclosed deck of the historic ship from 8:00pm to 1:00am on Thursday, December 31.

The evening will start off with “A Tribute to the Andrews Sisters” as guests are greeted by a performance by the Singing Blue Stars.

3 O’Clock Jump will get everybody dancing for the rest of the night. The 17-person band is made up of some of the best swing and jazz musicians from the Bay Area. They specialize in the classic Big Band songs that America danced to during WWII plus an eclectic repertoire that includes Rhumba, Cha Cha Cha, and Waltz.

Don’t know the fancy steps? For those who would like to learn new moves, free dance lessons will be provided throughout the evening by Jim Truesdale, a former Fred Astaire instructor.

New Year’s Eve on the aircraft carrier USS Hornet is always a unique experience. A testimonial from the band’s website sums it up: “Last year’s New Year's Eve on the USS Hornet was the best ever, according to 850 dancers. The band had a great time playing to a jumping crowd of jitterbugs and hepcats who came in costume to cut a rug!”

A silent auction will be held in conjunction with the party with proceeds benefiting the educational programs of the USS Hornet Museum. Auction items include a selection of hotel packages, gift certificates to Bay Area restaurants, wines, sporting event tickets, museum experiences, and gift baskets.

From swing to rock, the USS Hornet is the Bay Area’s best place to dance with three large dance floors on the enclosed, heated hangar deck. Tickets for the New Year’s Eve event are $48 to $90 per person and include free parking. An optional buffet dinner is available for purchase. For information and reservations: (510) 521-8448 x 282.

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About the USS Hornet
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. Permanent exhibits feature over 15 Navy and Marines aircraft and helicopters from various eras including a TBM Avenger from WWII, an F-14 Tomcat from Desert Storm, and an F-4 Phantom from Vietnam.

Ship compartments open for public touring include Combat Information Center, Captain’s Bridge, Flight Deck Control, Hangar Deck, Pilot Ready Rooms, Ship’s Hospital, Torpedo Shop, Officers’ Quarters, and the newly open Post Office.

The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization with the goal of inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. Exhibits include airplanes, helicopters, spacecraft, and the West Coast’s largest Apollo 11 Moon Mission display. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The museum is open to the public daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521 8448 x 0.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 28, 2009

U.S. MILITARY VETERANS TO BE HONORED ON THE USS HORNET
U.S. Military Veterans Receive Free Admission
November 9-15

In recognition of their service to our country, military veterans wearing their unit jackets, hats, or showing proper identification at the ticket desk will receive complimentary admission to the USS Hornet Museum in Alameda from November 9 to 15, 2009.

Veteran's Day Ceremony on November 11

American veterans will be honored during a public ceremony on the historic aircraft carrier on Veteran’s Day, Tuesday, November 11, beginning at 11:00am. The aircraft carrier USS Hornet is the Bay Area’s largest veteran.

The guest speaker will be Randall J. Ramian, Chief Executive Officer of the USS Hornet Museum. A commander, Supply Corps, in the Naval Reserve, Ramian has held numerous leadership positions in the U.S. Navy including commanding and executive officer. He was recalled to active duty in 2004 – 2005 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and served as deputy commander/chief of staff of a transportation group at a major Kuwaiti port with distribution responsibilities in Iraq, Afghanistan, Qatar, Bahrain, UAE and Djibouti.

Music will be provided by the USS Hornet Band. The Color Guard will be provided by Boy Scouts Troop 152 and Adventure Scouts Unit 152 from Oakley who are led by a former crewmember of the USS Hornet.

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About the USS Hornet
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. Permanent exhibits feature over 15 Navy and Marines aircraft and helicopters from various eras including a TBM Avenger from WWII, an F-14 Tomcat from Desert Storm, and an F-4 Phantom from Vietnam.

Ship compartments open for public touring include Combat Information Center, Captain’s Bridge, Flight Deck Control, Hangar Deck, Pilot Ready Rooms, Ship’s Hospital, Torpedo Shop, Officers’ Quarters, and the newly open Post Office.

A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the historic aircraft carrier is located at 707 W. Hornet Ave., Pier 3 at the former Naval Air Station in Alameda. The ship is open to the public every day from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Admission is $6-$14 for the general public and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, call (510) 521-8448 x 282 or go to www.uss-hornet.org.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 21, 2009

MONSTER BASH ABOARD THE USS HORNET
Extend Your Trick-Or-Treat Fun
Saturday, October 31

Is the USS Hornet Haunted? Bring the whole family and find out on Halloween night!

The USS Hornet Museum will hold its annual Monster Bash from 7:30 p.m. to midnight on Saturday, October 31 onboard the historic ship located at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3 in Alameda, California. Visitors will get a good fright throughout the evening with haunted tours, dancing, costume contests, and other treats.

This year’s featured band, The Cocktail Monkeys, will bring exciting music and fun to the USS Hornet as they lead guests through a fantasy evening covering the most popular songs from the 60’s through current favorites. The Cocktail Monkeys were one of KFOX’s Last Band Standing finalists and audience participation is not overlooked -- you never know who will be selected to come up and join in on cowbell. More information about the band can be found at: www.thecocktailmonkeys.com

The Haunted Hospital will be packed with evil doctors doing weird experiments that might go wrong. Elvira’s “Fright Stimulator” will give party-goers a good jolt. Kids can even get into the act by creating ghoulish crafts.

An audience favorite is the costume contest. Prizes will be awarded in four categories: Scariest Costume, Best Couples Costume, Best Children’s Costume, and Audience Favorite.

Happy hour, tours, and children’s activities start at 7:30pm, with the band performing from 8:00pm - midnight. To purchase tickets call (510) 521-8448 x 282. Tickets are $20 for adults ($25 at the door) and $10 for kids. Cash bars and food concessions are available. For more information, visit www.hornetevents.com.

Proceeds benefit the USS Hornet Museum, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization with the goal of inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. Exhibits include airplanes, helicopters, spacecraft, and the West Coast’s largest Apollo 11 Moon Mission display. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The museum is open to the public daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448 x 0.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 26, 2009

USS Hornet Museum to Celebrate 40th Anniversary of Man’s First
Steps on the Moon and Successful Recovery of Apollo 11 Space Mission

Splashdown 2009 to Showcase Recovery Ship for Apollo 11 and Apollo 12 Missions
with Special Guest Buzz Aldrin
Splashdown 2009: July 23-26

Alameda CA, June 5, 2009 – The USS Hornet Museum www.uss-hornet.org announced today that it will commemorate the 40th anniversary of its historic, safe recovery of Apollo 11 with Splashdown 2009, a three-day festival to take place on the ship, which is anchored at Alameda Point on San Francisco Bay.

From July 24 - 26, 2009, the public and media are invited onboard for a series of special events that will appeal to people of all ages, including families with kids, such as ship tours, special interactive exhibits, and opportunities to meet representatives from NASA and the space industry and former USS Hornet crew.

On Saturday July 25th, the featured guest speaker will be former astronaut Buzz Aldrin, Lunar Module Pilot for Apollo 11 and the second man to walk on the moon. Visitors can literally walk in the footsteps that mark the astronauts’ first steps back on Earth.

“Forty years ago, the aircraft carrier USS Hornet recovered the first two NASA missions that landed men on the moon – Apollo 11 and Apollo 12. The ship is the largest surviving artifact from these incredible events which were a significant benchmark in the history of humankind,” said Pete Sutherland, Chief Operating Officer and Director of Education of the USS Hornet Museum. The museum features the West Coast’s largest Apollo exhibit. Permanent displays on board include an Apollo Capsule, HS-4 “Helo 66” type recovery helicopter, and the Mobile Quarantine Facility used by Apollo 14 open for viewing.

Splashdown 2009 events include:

Thursday, July 23: Members-Only Preview

Friday, July 24: Static displays, including the Apollo command module CM011A, which flew the AS202 mission in 1966 and was recovered by the USS Hornet after its sub-orbital flight, re-entry into the atmosphere, and landing in the Pacific Ocean; the only Mobile Quarantine Facility open to public viewing, actual moon rocks, and a welcome reception with former USS Hornet crew who were aboard during the Apollo 11, Apollo 12 and other recoveries including:

  • John Stonesifer – NASA Director for the Apollo 11 at-sea Quarantine Program
  • Clancy Hatleberg – UDT-11 swimmer who was the first person to greet the astronauts after their walk on the moon, and the "decon” (decontamination) officer for Apollo 11
  • Bruce Johnson – HS-4 helicopter recovery co-pilot for the Apollo 11 astronauts (Please note: Don Jones, recovery pilot for the Apollo 11 astronauts passed away in 2004)
  • Chuck Smiley – HS-4 helicopter recovery pilot for the Apollo 10 and 13 astronauts
  • Don Blair – the only public radio announcer onboard for the splashdown and recovery of Apollo 11, and author of “Splashdown: NASA and the Navy” (Don will be available to sign his book.)
Saturday, July 25: Speech and book signing opportunity with former astronaut Buzz Aldrin; and dinner with special guests who are well-known personalities of the space program; also interactive exhibits featuring space travel artifacts and technology, including NASA and Soviet spacesuits.

Sunday, July 26: A special “Women in Space” panel discussion and book signing featuring Mabel Armstrong - historian and author of "Women in Astronomy: Reaching for the Stars", Margaret Race - NASA planetary protection officer, and Dr. Wendy Holferty of NASA Ames Research Center.

Special Book Signings are also planned

The USS Hornet will also serve as a platform for the West Coast launch of Buzz Aldrin’s new book, “Magnificent Desolation: The Long Journey from the Moon.” The book is a memoir about his triumphs in space and the hard times back on Earth. Following his public speech on the ship, Buzz will be signing copies of his new book for the first time in the San Francisco Bay Area.

In addition, Bob Fish, Apollo curator for the USS Hornet Museum, will be available to sign his new book, “Hornet Plus Three: The Story of the Apollo 11 Recovery.” Fish’s book is the story of the Navy’s support of America’s race to the Moon and contains first-hand recollections from members of the “command element” serving aboard the USS Hornet during the recovery mission, and from the astronauts themselves.

Don Blair, “the voice of Apollo 11,” will be available to sign his book “Splashdown: NASA and the Navy.” This is the first book devoted solely to the Navy's role in the splashdown phase of America's space program, with dramatic eyewitness accounts by the author.

Images available: Rare JPG and video images of the USS Hornet and the recovery of the Apollo 11 Command Module are available upon request.

For more information on the USS Hornet Museum and Splashdown 2009, go to www.uss-hornet.org.

About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet is a famous World War II aircraft carrier that fought in nine major battles, and was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation. She served throughout the Cold War in the Pacific, including three tours of duty off the coast of Vietnam.  In 1969 she recovered the first two lunar landing flights - Apollo 11 and Apollo 12. As a result of her unique role in two of the most momentous occasions in modern world history, Hornet became a National Historic Landmark in 1994 and was opened to the public as a museum in 1998 at Alameda Point.

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Media Contacts:

Victoria Sánchez De Alba
De Alba Communications
(650) 270-7810
victoria@dealba.net

Pete Sutherland
USS Hornet Museum
510-521-8448 ext. 228
pete.sutherland@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 26, 2009

FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION
ON THE AIRCRAFT CARRIER USS HORNET
Saturday, July 4

Celebrate Independence Day, this exciting patriotic holiday, on a ship that affected the course of American history.

The USS Hornet Museum in Alameda hosts its annual Independence Day party on July 4 from 10:00am to 10:00pm. The family event features live music on the flight deck, interactive games for all ages, and a bounce house for kids. Tours of the famous aircraft carrier will be available throughout the day. In the evening visitors can watch panoramic views of Bay Area fireworks from the flight deck.

The USS Hornet Museum will offer plenty of interactive activities starting at 1:00pm. A variety of carnival and table-top games will be located inside the Hangar Deck. On the Flight Deck, there will be a bounce house and inflatable games for all ages. Don’t miss a chance to ride the flight simulator through a jet fighter mission!

Throughout the day, guests are welcome to explore the many decks of the legendary aircraft carrier. Open for public tour are the flight deck, hangar bays, engine room, flight operations, captain’s bridge, ship’s hospital, combat information center and torpedo shop. Exhibits include the West Coast’s largest Apollo Moon Mission display and more than a dozen aircraft ranging from WWII vintage to modern era. Visitors can get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and a helicopter from the “Apollo 13” movie. 

The highlight of the family-friendly event is a concert on the Flight Deck starting at 3:00pm. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay while listening to live music on the ship’s flight deck. Scheduled bands will perform lively dance music including Salsa and Latin music by The Amigos Band, world music by Tempest, and Rock ‘n’ Roll oldies by Eddie and the Boppers. Following the concert, guests are welcome to remain on the Flight Deck to watch panoramic views of Bay Area fireworks.

A great selection of food, beer and wine will be available for purchase during the event.

All-day admission is $25 for adults ($20 in advance) and $10 for children ages 5-17; museum members receive free admission. Family & Friends Membership for one year is $75. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 510-521-8448 x 282 or visit www.uss-hornet.org.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The aircraft carrier USS Hornet is a registered State and National Historic Landmark. The ship participated in two of the 20th century’s most memorable events – WWII and the Apollo 11 moon mission. The ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA and is open to the public daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. There is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. Proceeds from the Fourth of July Party and other events benefit its educational mission.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – May 22, 2009

FATHER’S DAY ONBOARD THE AIRCRAFT CARRIER USS HORNET
Sunday, June 21

Bring Dad aboard the historic USS Hornet Museum in Alameda on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 21, to experience “Living Ship Day." Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in mission briefings, see airplanes lifted to the flight deck, and sit in a fighter jet cockpit. Family activities and ship tours will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is ample free parking and a food concession. Admission is adults $14, seniors (65 and older) $12, Military ID and students $12, youth 5-17 $6, under 5 years free with paying adult.

The USS Hornet is a world-class sea, air and space museum with an emphasis on the legacy of naval aviation and the Apollo 11 moon mission recovery. Open for public tour are the restored flight deck, hangar bays, engine room, flight control, captain’s bridge, sick bay, pilot ready rooms and combat information center. Included among the numerous exhibits are the “Apollo Splashdown” display and 15 aircraft ranging from WWII vintage to modern era. Dads can get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, an S-3 Viking, and an authentic Apollo space capsule.

The day before Father’s Day, treat Dad to a special Flashlight Tour beginning at 8:30 a.m. and explore the lower decks of the USS Hornet that have not been opened to the public. The tour is $35 per person and includes museum admission for the entire day. Reservations are required.

For Flashlight Tour reservations or information about Living Ship Day call (510) 521-8448 x 282.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 23, 2009

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY ON THE USS HORNET
Monday, May 25

A Memorial Day ceremony will be held onboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet from 1:00 to 2:00pm on Monday, May 25. The event will remember and honor those men and women in the military services who paid the ultimate price for our freedoms. Veterans of past and present wars will be honored during a special Memorial Day service, followed immediately by a wreath ceremony.

A registered State and National Historic Landmark and American treasure, the USS Hornet serves as a monument to the men and women who have unselfishly defended our country’s freedom throughout the centuries. Visitors can explore the many decks of the ship from Captain’s Bridge to Engine Room. Exhibits include 13 Navy and Marine aircraft ranging from WWII vintage to modern era, and the West Coast’s largest Apollo Moon Mission display. Tours of the ship will be available from 10:00am to 4:00pm. Admission is $14 for adults, $12 with Military I.D., and $6 for kids. Free parking.

More information: (510) 521-8448 x 282 or www.uss-hornet.org.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization with the goal of inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. The USS Hornet is docked permanently at the former Naval Air Station in Alameda and is open to the public daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm, with gates closing at 4:00pm. The ship is berthed at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3, in Alameda, CA.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 6, 2009

USS HORNET MUSEUM COMMEMORATES “DOOLITTLE RAID”
Saturday, April 11

The USS Hornet Museum” will commemorate the “Doolittle Raid” in a Living Ship Day demonstration from 11:00am to 3:00pm on Saturday, April 11, onboard the aircraft carrier berthed at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3, in Alameda, CA.

The museum will come to life as an operating aircraft carrier. Visitors will participate in mission briefings, meet former crew, sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet, enjoy the sights and sounds of naval aviation and witness simulated flight operations as aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed into launch position. Andy Popenoe, a historian from the Doolittle Museum in Sacramento, will be one of the featured guests onboard the ship. He will give a presentation about local hero Jimmy Doolittle and the impact of the Doolittle Raid in WWII.

The primary significance of having the Doolittle Raid commemoration on the USS Hornet Museum at Alameda Point is two-fold: 1) The current Hornet CV-12’s predecessor ship, Hornet CV-8, launched this daring raid, and 2) the raid personnel and their equipment were loaded aboard Hornet CV-8 at Alameda Point, directly adjacent to where the USS Hornet museum is now located.

The museum is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Museum admission is $14 for adults and $6 for children 5-17. There is ample free parking. For information about all events call (510) 521-8448 and visit www.hornetevents.com.

“Doolittle’s Raiders” were an elite group of airmen who executed an historic, daytime air raid against Tokyo in WWII led by legendary pilot Lt. Colonel Jimmy Doolittle, USAAF, who was born in Alameda.

On April 1, 1942, sixteen B-25 bombers, their five-man volunteer crews, and maintenance personnel were loaded onto the USS Hornet CV-8 at Alameda Naval Air Station. The next day, the Hornet and her escorts sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge for their date with destiny. On April 18, the Raiders flew 650 miles from their launch point in the Pacific, dropped their bombs on several Japanese cities and flew on to China where many crash landed.

Although the raid did little military damage, the Japanese government was deeply embarrassed.  The bombing was a tremendous psychological victory for America, still reeling from the attack on Pearl Harbor. The Japanese military's hasty response was to attack Midway Island, which proved disastrous when their Navy was soundly defeated.

Andy Popenoe served 17 years in the Air Force with 4.5 years in Vietnam participating in 26 of the 27 total campaigns, flying 174 combat missions, and has numerous decorations. He retired from Travis Air Force Base as a command chief master sergeant. After leaving the Air Force, he went on to become president and CEO of ABI, a marine hardware company.  He has served for 28 years on the board of directors of Travis Credit Union, the 11th largest in California, and is an avid historian on aviation history in America.  A native of Washington State, he has lived with his family in Fairfield since 1974.

For information and directions, call 510-521-8448 or visit www.uss-hornet.org

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The Aircraft Carrier Hornet Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. The ship is open to the public daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Regular admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier.

Included in the numerous exhibits on the USS Hornet are 15 Navy and Marine aircraft and helicopters, ranging from WWII vintage to modern era, and the West Coast’s largest Apollo Moon Mission display. Get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and an authentic Apollo space capsule.

A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Media Contact: Stephanie Prothero, (510) 521-8448 x 211 or stephanie.prothero@uss-hornet.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 6, 2009

RANDALL J. RAMIAN APPOINTED NEW CEO
OF USS HORNET MUSEUM

The Aircraft Carrier Hornet Foundation (ACHF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Randall J. Ramian as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the USS Hornet Museum.

Ramian comes to the USS Hornet with an extensive management background in the banking industry including Wells Fargo Bank and Citibank (regional area and branch management) and Xerox Corporation (regional marketing and finance management). He has significant experience with a number of successful start-up ventures.

Ramian holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from San Jose State University, Master’s of Public Administration from the University of Southern California and Master’s Degree in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.

A commander, Supply Corps, in the Naval Reserve, Ramian has held numerous leadership positions in the U.S. Navy including commanding and executive officer. He was recalled to active duty in 2004 – 2005 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, and served as deputy commander/chief of staff of a transportation group at a major Kuwaiti port with distribution responsibilities in Iraq, Afghanistan, Qatar, Bahrain, UAE and Djibouti.

Once active in the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts, Randall is currently involved with the U. S. Naval Sea Cadets, a US Navy League sponsored program for youth. He has served on the board of directors for several private and public organizations, including the Treasure Island Museum Association. Ramian is also a PLANKOWNER of the Aircraft Carrier Hornet Foundation, supporting the museum since its inception in 1998.

Randall resides in Belmont, California, with his wife and son, and is extremely enthusiastic about his new position of leadership with the Hornet “crew.”

“Indeed,” he says, “I am excited to be associated with the icon of Bay Area educational institutions which Hornet is, and look forward to helping the Hornet museum remain a premiere sea, air, and space museum, and valuable learning center, especially for the youth of the area.”

To assist in finding Ramian the Hornet Foundation Board of Trustees engaged an executive recruiter, Mr. Ray Fortney of the Cleantech Group. He conducted an efficient and thorough nationwide search for suitable candidates for the CEO position.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. Exhibits include airplanes, helicopters, spacecraft, and the West Coast’s largest Apollo 11 Moon Mission display. The museum is open to the public daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm and there is ample free parking across from the pier. The USS Hornet is also the site of many public and private events. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

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January 9, 2009 - For Immediate Release

VALENTINE’S DANCE Onboard The
AIRCRAFT CARRIER USS HORNET
Saturday, February 14

Enjoy a special Valentines evening aboard the aircraft carrier USS HORNET. Dance to the frolicking jazz sounds of Stompy Jones and the big band lounge classics performed by the Romano Marchetti Orchestra. The fundraising event takes place on Saturday, February 14, from 8:00pm to midnight.

With three dance floors on the enclosed, heated hangar deck, the USS Hornet is one of the best places in the Bay Area to dance. For those who would like to learn new steps, free dance lessons will be provided throughout the evening by Jim Truesdale, a former Fred Astaire instructor.

Cash bars and dinner concessions available. Doors open at 7:15pm.

Stompy Jones is a San Francisco-based sextet renowned for their jumpin’ rhythm, wailing improvisations, hip charm, and explosive stage show. Their vintage rhythm and blues sound is delivered in the romping, joyous, overwhelming style of jazz that came to be known as Rock and Roll. Whether playing at a posh supper club, concert hall, or music festival, Stompy Jones recreates historic sounds combined with a contemporary sensibility. (song samples)

The Romano Marchetti Orchestra is a 5-piece band that specializes in a variety of musical tastes. Their selections consist of dancing and listening music of many styles including swing, 50s rock, jazz, Latin, show tunes, and many big band and vocal standards. (song samples)

Dancers and spectators alike can enjoy the many hits that made it to the charts in the 1940’s and 1950’s. Period attire is welcome. Tickets range from $40 for general admission to $75 for special reserved seating. There is plenty of free parking.

Proceeds benefit the Aircraft Carrier Hornet Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, and support the preservation of the historic aircraft carrier and the educational programs of the USS Hornet Museum. The USS Hornet, permanently docked in Alameda, has become a popular destination for special events. The USS Hornet is one of the Bay Area’s most unique venues – with its sweeping views of the Bay, central location, convenient parking, and reputation for hosting unforgettable parties.

For information and to purchase tickets: www.uss-hornet.org/dance or call 510-521-8448 x 282.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The Aircraft Carrier Hornet Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier.

Included in the numerous exhibits of the USS Hornet are 15 Navy and Marine aircraft and helicopters, ranging from WWII vintage to modern era, and the West Coast’s largest Apollo Moon Mission display. Get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and an authentic Apollo space capsule.

A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Media Contact: Stephanie Prothero, (510) 521-8448 x 211 or stephanie.prothero@uss-hornet.org

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November 7, 2008 - For Immediate Release

NEW YEAR’S EVE ONBOARD THE USS HORNET MUSEUM
Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Ring in a new year aboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet. Enjoy live music, party favors, a silent auction, cash bars and food concessions, midnight countdown, and a spectacular view of the Bay Area skyline. The ultimate New Year’s Eve Party will be held on the decks of the historic ship from 8:00pm to 1:00am on Wednesday, December 31.

This year’s featured band is 3 O’Clock Jump. The 17-person band is made up of some of the best swing and jazz musicians from the Bay Area. They not only specialize in the classic Big Bands songs that America danced to during WWII but have a large and eclectic repertoire.

A silent auction will be held in conjunction with the party with proceeds benefiting the educational programs of the USS Hornet Museum. Auction items include a selection of hotel packages, gift certificates to Bay Area restaurants, wines, sporting event tickets, museum experiences, and gift baskets.

From swing to rock, the USS Hornet is the Bay Area’s best place to dance with three large dance floors on the enclosed, heated hangar deck. Tickets are $45 to $85 per person and include free parking. An optional buffet dinner is available for purchase. For information and Reservations: (510) 521-8448 x 282.

# # #

About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. For more information, visit http://www.uss-hornet.org/ or call (510) 521-8448.

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November 1, 2008 - For Immediate Release

U.S. MILITARY VETERANS TO BE HONORED ON THE USS HORNET
U.S. Military Veterans Receive Free Admission
November 10-16, 2008

In recognition of their service to our country, military veterans wearing their unit jackets, hats, or showing proper identification at the ticket desk will receive complimentary admission to the USS Hornet Museum from November 10 to 16.

The aircraft carrier USS Hornet is the Bay Area’s largest veteran. Permanent exhibits feature over 15 Navy and Marines aircraft and helicopters from various eras including a TBM Avenger from WWII, an F-14 Tomcat from Desert Storm, and a newly added F-4 Phantom from Vietnam. Ship compartments open for public touring include Captain’s Bridge, Flight Deck Control, Hangar Deck, Pilot Ready Rooms, Ship’s Hospital, Torpedo Shop, Officers’ Quarters, and Combat Information Center (see panoramas of compartments).

Veterans Day Ceremony
Tuesday, November 11, 1:30pm

American veterans will be honored during a public ceremony on the historic aircraft carrier on Veteran’s Day, Tuesday, November 11, beginning at 1:00pm.

The guest speaker will be Commander Jason R. Hamilton, Executive Assistant to the Pacific Area Commander.  In this capacity, he serves as policy advisor to the Pacific Area Commander. 
 
CDR Hamilton is a 1993 graduate of the U. S. Coast Guard Academy where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in government with honors.  In 2000 he received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Washington and is licensed to practice law before the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces.  In his most recent legal assignment he served as the Chief of the Military Justice Branch, Maintenance and Logistics Command (MLC) Pacific.  CDR Hamilton’s personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, three Coast Guard Commendation Medals and two Coast Guard Achievement Medals. 
 
Music will be provided by the Boy Scouts of America's Peninsula Scout Band. The Peninsula Scout Band is a co-ed group comprised of talented high school students from throughout the Bay Area. Members of the band have participated in national competitions and have performed with the US Air Force’s Band of the Golden West.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the historic aircraft carrier is at the former Naval Air Station in Alameda, 707 W. Hornet Ave., Pier 3. The ship is open to the public every day from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Regular admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, call (510) 521-8448 x 282 or go to: http://www.uss-hornet.org/

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November 1, 2008 - For Immediate Release

WWII VF-17 ACES REVISIT THE USS HORNET
Saturday, November 8, 1:30pm

WWII aces will be onboard the USS Hornet on Saturday, November 8, in conjunction with a symposium being held at the Hiller Aviation Museum. For some of the former pilots, it will be the first time aboard the USS Hornet since 1944. Following tours of the ship, the WWII aces will be available to meet the public at 1:30pm. This is a great opportunity for people to chat with the aces about being “Ace-in-A-Day,” participating in the sinking of the mighty Japanese super battleship Yamato, and other exploits. The special visit was arranged by the Northern California Friends of the American Fighter Aces Association.

The tentative line-up includes:

Commander John "Ted" Crosby: Commissioned May 1943 and assigned to VF-18 flying Hellcats off the USS Bunker Hill. Reformed as VF-17, the squadron was returned to combat aboard the USS Hornet. On April 16 1945 Ted became and "Ace in a day" by destroying 5 enemy aircraft on a single mission. Final score, 5 1/4.

Commander Willis "Bill" Hardy: Commissioned on December 1943 and assigned to VF-17 aboard the USS Hornet. Bill also became an "Ace in a day" on April 6, downing 5 enemy aircraft. Final score, 6 1/2.

James "Jim" Pearce: Assigned to VS-52 in April 1943 then transferred to VF-17 aboard the USS Bunker Hill. Jim was part of the reformation into VF-17 aboard the USS Hornet. Jim's final total was 5 1/4. Jim went on to fly as a test pilot for Grumman and North American. Jim was in charge of test and check out of the Apollo Lunar command and service modules.

Lt. Commander Charles "Billy" Watts: Commissioned in February 1943 and assigned to VF-18. Billy was returned to combat with VF-17 aboard the USS Hornet. Final score, 8 3/4.

Other aces in attendance may include Dr. John Zink (5 victories with VF-11 aboard the USS Hornet), Ralph Foltz (5 victories aboard the USS Essex), Alex Vraciu (19 victories off the USS Lexington and USS Intrepid); Bob Coats, Tom Harris, Murray Winfield, and Tilly Pool (all Hornet Aces)

For more information about the “Aces of VF-18 & V-17 Symposium” being held at the Hiller Aviation Museum: http://www.hiller.org/files/docs/aces.pdf

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September 19, 2008 - For Immediate Release

MONSTER BASH ABOARD THE
AIRCRAFT CARRIER USS HORNET
Saturday, October 25

Is the USS Hornet Haunted? Bring the whole family and find out. The USS Hornet Museum will hold its annual Monster Bash from 7:30pm to midnight on Saturday, October 25 onboard the historic ship located at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3 in Alameda, California.  This family-friendly event will feature live dance music, prizes for best costumes, children’s area and haunted tours. Cash bars and food concessions are available.

The Cocktail Monkeys: Served shaken, not stirred.

This year’s featured band is one of KFOX’s Last Band Standing finalists, The Cocktail Monkeys. Covering the best of decades from the 60’s through current favorites, their songs range from rock, pop, funk and disco. The Cocktail Monkeys will bring exciting music and fun to the USS Hornet as they lead you through a fantasy evening covering your favorite songs by your favorite bands. Audience participation is not overlooked -- you never know who will be selected to come up and join in on cowbell. More information about the band can be found at www.thecocktailmonkeys.com.

Haunted Happenings

The crew of the USS Hornet Museum will give guests a good fright throughout the evening with haunted tours of the lower deck and other scary treats. The Haunted Hospital will be packed with evil doctors doing weird experiments that might go wrong. Elvira’s “Fright Stimulator” will give party-goers a good jolt. Kids can even get into the act by creating ghoulish crafts. Prizes will be awarded in four categories: Most Creative Costume, Best Couples Costume, Best Children’s Costume, and Audience’s Favorite.
 
Happy hour, tours, and children’s activities start at 7:30pm, with the band performing from 8 - midnight.
 
Tickets are $20 for adults ($25 at the door) and $10 for kids. Proceeds benefit the USS Hornet Museum, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.  
 
To purchase tickets, call (510) 521-8448 x282 or order online at http://usshornet.stores.yahoo.net/

# # #

About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. Exhibits include airplanes, helicopters, spacecraft, and the West Coast’s largest Apollo 11 Moon Mission display. The museum is open to the public daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

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September 12, 2008 - For Immediate Release

USS HORNET MUSEUM CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY
Saturday, October 18

The USS Hornet Museum marks its 10th Anniversary with an Open House Celebration on Saturday, October 18, from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Admission will be free to the public throughout the day. The day will include games for all family members, food and beverage concessions on board, and much more. Hornet veterans will be onboard to lead guided tours.
 
Explore this 900-foot long 150-foot tall floating city. Around every corner Hornet holds another discovery waiting to happen. Aboard you will find something for everyone, from young families to museum enthusiasts to experienced veterans.
 
Take advantage of this rare free admission day to participate in as unique an experience as you will find anywhere. Have your picture taken while sitting in the cockpit of a real fighter jet. Experience a rare opportunity for aircraft elevator rides as you are transported from the Hangar Deck to the Flight Deck. Join in on fun and games for all ages.
 
Celebrate the accomplishments made in the last decade — see new aircraft, new exhibits, and newly restored spaces.

More information: 510-521-8448 x 0 or www.uss-hornet.org

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. Exhibits include airplanes, helicopters, spacecraft, and the West Coast’s largest Apollo 11 Moon Mission display. The museum is open to the public daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org/ or call (510) 521-8448.

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August 18, 2008 - For Immediate Release

SEPTEMBER EVENTS ON THE USS HORNET
USS Hornet Museum Honors First Responders
September 6-12

The USS Hornet Museum honors Bay Area’s “first-responders” during their annual Patriots and Heroes Week. Firefighters, rescue personnel and law enforcement staff will receive complimentary admission to the USS Hornet Museum during the week of September 6-12.
 
Patriot Day, September 11, was established by Congress in December of 2001 as a national holiday in memory of all the brave firefighters, police officers, office workers, rescue workers, airline employees, and passengers who perished in the World Trade Center and Pentagon attacks.

USS Hornet Brought to Life
Saturday, September 20

See the aircraft carrier in action while being surrounded by the exciting sights and sounds of a working naval vessel. Witness simulated flight operations as aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed into launch position, meet former crew, and sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet! All activities take place between 11:00am and 3:30pm.
 
Permanent exhibits on the USS Hornet include an Apollo Moon Mission display, Navy aircraft and helicopters, and restored ship spaces. Visitors can explore the ship as they descend from Captain’s Bridge to Engine Room. Other areas open for public tour include the flight deck, hangar deck, flight control, sick bay, pilot ready rooms, officers’ quarters, and combat information center. Visitors can also get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, an authentic Apollo space capsule, and helicopters used for search and rescue. The USS Hornet recently acquired a T-28 Trojan that is now on display.

# # #

About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the historic aircraft carrier is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448 x 0.

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July 7, 2008 - For Immediate Release

APPEARING TWO NIGHTS!
GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA TO PLAY ONBOARD THE USS HORNET
Friday, August 1 and Saturday, August 2, 2008

The World-Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra, the most popular and sought-after big band in the world for both concert and swing dance engagements, will play onboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet on two different nights: Friday, August 1 and Saturday, August 2. Ticket prices for each night start at $45 and benefit the USS Hornet Museum. Ample free parking is available across the street from the pier. The USS Hornet Museum is located at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3 in Alameda.

The legendary Glenn Miller was one of the most successful of all the bandleaders back in the Swing era of the ‘30s and ‘40s. His recordings of In the Mood, Chattanooga Choo Choo, A String of Pearls, Moonlight Serenade, and Tuxedo Junction were all major hit records.

Doors open at 7:00pm with free dance lessons provided by Jim Truesdale, former Fred Astaire dance instructor. The World-Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra will play from 8:00pm to midnight with dancing on three large dance floors on the enclosed hangar deck. The Singing Blue Stars will perform a tribute to the Andrews Sisters during intermission. Period attire is encouraged.

Cabaret Seating -- premium reserved tables in front of the stage and along the dance floor -- is $95 per person. Reserved seating located on the other side of the dance floors is $68 per person. General admission is $45 per person. If the event is not sold out, General Admission tickets will be available at the door for $50 per person. All food and drink is sold separate from admission price.

Voted as the best place to hear and dance to swing music by Diablo Magazine, the USS Hornet Museum is the hottest dance place in the Bay Area and attracts “swing-era” crowds in excess of 1,200 people.

This is the USS Hornet's premiere big band dance event that sells out early so order tickets today. Tickets can be ordered online at www.hornetevents.com/, or call (510) 521-8448 x 282 during the week.

Permanently docked at the former Naval Air Station in Alameda, the aircraft carrier HORNET features three large dance floors, cash bars, gourmet food concession, and ample free parking. Dancing is on the enclosed hangar deck of the ship.

For more information, call (510) 521-8448 ext 282 or visit www.uss-hornet.org/

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Regular museum admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org/ or call (510) 521-8448.

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July 7, 2008 - For Immediate Release

APOLLO 11 COMMEMORATION – MEET AN ASTRONAUT
ONBOARD THE AIRCRAFT CARRIER USS HORNET
Saturday, July 19, 2008

On Saturday, July 19, the USS Hornet Museum in Alameda will commemorate the 39th anniversary of the flight of the Apollo 11 lunar landing mission. The historic aircraft carrier USS Hornet recovered both the Apollo 11 and Apollo 12 missions in 1969. A public presentation will begin at 1:30pm and features former NASA astronaut Daniel W. Bursch (Captain, USN, Ret.). Other special exhibits will be on display.

The USS Hornet Museum has the West Coast’s premier Apollo space collection, featuring an Apollo capsule used for sub-orbital flight tests, the Mobile Quarantine Facility used by the Apollo 14 crew, and the SH-3 SeaKing helicopter used in the “Apollo 13” movie. In addition, special exhibits will be on display including a moon rock on loan from NASA and a Gemini boilerplate capsule.

Family activities and ship tours will be held from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Visitors will have the opportunity to sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet and see airplanes lifted to the flight deck. Admission is adults $14, seniors (65 and older) $12, Military ID and students $12, youth 5-17 $6, under 5 years free with paying adult. There is ample free parking and a food concession.

Daniel W. Bursch (Captain, USN, Ret.)
Captain Daniel Bursch became an astronaut in July 1991. A veteran of four space flights, Bursch has logged over 227 days in space. He was a mission specialist on STS-51 (1993), STS-68 (1994) and STS-77 (1996), and served as flight engineer on ISS Expedition-Four (2001-2002). Until last year, Dan Bursch and fellow astronaut Carl Walz held the U.S. space flight endurance record for 196 days in space. His technical assignments have included: working on controls and displays for the Space Shuttle and Space Station; Chief of Astronaut Appearances; and spacecraft communicator (CAPCOM) in mission control. Bursch retired from active duty in July 2005 after 26 years of service in the US Navy. He currently serves as the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) Chair at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA.

Capt. Bursch graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1979. After initial training as an A-6E Intruder bombardier/navigator, he deployed to the Mediterranean aboard the aircraft carrier USS John F. Kennedy, and to the North Atlantic and Indian Oceans aboard the USS America. In 1987, Bursch was assigned as Strike Operations Officer, making deployments to the Indian Ocean aboard the USS Long Beach and the USS Midway. He has over 3,430 flight hours in more than 35 different aircraft.

Bursch has been awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal, NASA Space Flight Medals, the Navy Commendation Medal and the Navy Achievement Medal. He is a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School.

Captain Bursch’s biographical data is available at: www.jsc.nasa.gov/Bios/htmlbios/bursch.html

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience the legacy of naval history, science, and space technology. A registered state and national historic landmark, the USS Hornet serves as a world-class sea, air and space museum with an emphasis on the legacy and history of aircraft carriers, naval aviation, and the role of the US Navy in the space missions. Open for public tour are the restored flight deck, hangar bays, engine room, flight operations, bridge, sick bay, ready rooms and combat information center.

The USS Hornet Museum is open 7 days a week from 10:00am to 5:00pm and is located at Pier 3, 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Alameda, CA. Regular museum admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org/.

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May 31, 2008 -- For Immediate Release

INDEPENDENCE DAY
FOURTH OFJULY CELEBRATION ON THE AIRCRAFT CARRIER USS HORNET
July 4, 2008

Celebrate Independence Day, this exciting patriotic holiday, on a ship that affected the course of history.

The USS Hornet Museum in Alameda hosts its annual Independence Day party on July 4 from Noon to 9:30pm. The family event features live music on the flight deck, interactive games for all ages, and a bounce house for kids. Tours of the famous aircraft carrier will be available throughout the day. In the evening, visitors can watch panoramic views of Bay Area fireworks from the flight deck.

Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay while listening to live music on the ship’s flight deck. Starboard Watch sings traditional sea shanties, the Romano Marchetti Orchestra performs big band and vocal standards, The Replay Band plays old-school R&B/Rock , and The Cocktail Monkeys perform a variety of dance music spanning the 80’s and 90’s. The Unauthorized Rolling Stones will complete the show with a tribute to one of the all-time greatest bands.

Throughout the day, guests are welcome to explore the many decks of the legendary aircraft carrier. Open for public tour are the flight deck, hangar bays, engine room, flight operations, captain’s bridge, sick bay, ready rooms, combat information center and torpedo shop. Exhibits include the West Coast’s largest Apollo Moon Mission display and more than a dozen aircraft ranging from WWII vintage to modern era. Visitors can get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and a helicopter from the “Apollo 13” movie.

The USS Hornet Museum will offer plenty of other interactive activities for the whole family. A variety of carnival and table-top games will be located inside the Hangar Deck. On the Flight Deck, there will be a bounce house and inflatable games for all ages. Don’t miss a chance to ride the flight simulator through a jet fighter mission!

A great selection of food, beer and wine will be available for purchase during the event.

All-day admission is $25 for adults ($22 in advance) and $12 for children ages 5-17; museum members receive free admission. Family & Friends Membership for one year is $75. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 510-521-8448 x 282 or visit www.hornetevents.com

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. Proceeds from the Fourth of July Party and other events benefit its educational mission. A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the aircraft carrier USS Hornet is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public every day from 10:00am to 5:00pm. There is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

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May 21, 2008 -- For Immediate Release

FATHER’S DAY EVENT ONBOARD THE USS HORNET MUSEUM IN ALAMEDA
Sunday, June 15, 2008

Bring Dad aboard the historic USS Hornet Museum in Alameda on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 15, for Living Ship Day. Family activities and ship tours will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in mission briefings, see airplanes lifted to the flight deck, and sit in a fighter jet cockpit. There is ample free parking and a food concession.

Admission is adults $14, seniors (65 and older) $12, Military ID and students $12, youth 5-17 $6, under 5 years free with paying adult.

The USS Hornet is a world-class sea, air and space museum with an emphasis on the legacy and history of aircraft carriers and naval aviation. Open for public tour are the restored flight deck, hangar bays, engine room, flight operations, bridge, sick bay, ready rooms and combat information center. Included among the numerous exhibits are the “Apollo Moon Mission” display and 13 Navy/Marine aircraft, both fixed and rotary wing, ranging from WWII vintage to modern era. Dads can get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and an authentic Apollo space capsule.

Treat Dad to a special Flashlight Tour beginning at 8:30 a.m. and explore the lower decks of the USS Hornet that have not been opened to the public. The tour is $35 per person and includes museum admission for the entire day. Reservations are required. For Flashlight Tour reservations or information about Living Ship Day call (510) 521-8448, x 282.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

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May 20, 2008 -- For Immediate Release

MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY ON THE USS HORNET
Monday, May 26, 2008

A Memorial Day ceremony will be held onboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet at 1:00pm on Monday, May 26. The event will remember and honor those men and women in the military services who paid the ultimate price for our freedoms. Veterans of past and present wars will be honored during the special Memorial Day service. Tours of the ship will be available from 10:00am to 5:00pm.

The keynote speaker will be Rear Admiral Craig E. Bone, Commander, Eleventh Coast Guard District.

As Eleventh District Commander, Rear Admiral Craig E. Bone is responsible for all Coast Guard missions in the 3.3 million square miles of coastal and offshore waters extending 1,000 nautical miles off of California, south to the Colombian and Ecuadorian border in South America. Prior to reporting to his present command, Rear Admiral Bone was the Assistant Commandant for Prevention. In that capacity, he directed national and international policy and programs for port, vessel, and facility safety and security, waterways management including navigation systems, icebreaking, bridge administration and marine transportation system policy.

A 1977 graduate of the U. S. Coast Guard Academy, Rear Admiral Bone began his Coast Guard career aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Hamilton (WHEC 715) in Boston, Mass. His personal awards include four Legions of Merit, four Meritorious Service Medals, and four Coast Guard Commendation Medals.

A registered State and National Historic Landmark and American treasure, the USS Hornet serves as a monument to the men and women who have unselfishly defended our country’s freedom throughout the centuries.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization with the goal of inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. Visitors can explore the many decks of the ship from Captain’s Bridge to Engine Room. Exhibits include 13 Navy and Marine aircraft, ranging from WWII vintage to modern era, and the West Coast’s largest Apollo Moon Mission display.

The USS Hornet is docked permanently at the former Naval Air Station in Alameda and is open to the public for an admission fee. The museum is open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm, with gates closing at 4:00pm. The ship is berthed at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3, in Alameda, CA. Regular admission price is $14 for adults and $6 for kids. Free parking. More information: (510) 521-8448 x 0 or www.hornetevents.com.

Media Contact: Stephanie Prothero, (510) 521-8448 x 211 or stephanie.prothero@uss-hornet.org

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April 2, 2008 -- For Immediate Release

USS Hornet to Host TROOPFEST 2008
Greg Kihn Band to Appear at Benefit Concert
Saturday, May 17, 2008

The aircraft carrier USS Hornet, permanently moored at Pier 3 in Alameda, CA, welcomes TROOPFEST 2008 from 10:00am to 5:00pm on Saturday, May 17. The benefit concert and festival is open to the public. Proceeds from the event will be used to send packages to U.S. troops overseas.

The highlight of TROOPFEST 2008 is the concert with five hours of classic rock music on the hangar deck featuring the Greg Kihn Band, Midlife Vices, Cocktail Monkeys, and Evolution: A tribute to Journey.  Guest star Chris Jackson of 98.5 KFOX and Grammy-winning artist Tony Lindsay will also perform.

The event is hosted by Operation: Care and Comfort program, unique to the Santa Clara Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross.

”With this election cycle so much in the forefront, our troops are not the main story in the news. We want to let them know that we have not forgotten them, and we are rocking and rolling in the San Francisco Bay Area to continue to show our support," said Julie DeMaria, co-founder of Operation: Care and Comfort.

TROOPFEST 2008 activities include live music, ship tours, exhibit and sponsorship tables, and raffle. The raffle grand prize is a 12-day cruise for two from Holland America Line. Other raffle prizes include an original 80's Kramer Pacer American (Strat shape) all-stock guitar signed by classic rock artists including Joe Satriani, Greg Kihn, Tom Johnston and Pat Simmons of The Doobie Brothers; Pat Travers, Dave Meniketti of Y&T, and others, donated by Chris Jackson.

Advance tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for youth (5-17.) A special military ticket is available for $15 with valid military I.D.  All tickets will be $5 more if purchased at the door. The adult ticket is also a raffle ticket, and additional raffle tickets may be purchased for $15 each, or eight for $100. Tickets may be purchased by calling (510) 521-8448 x 282 or logging onto the USS Hornet Museum’s website. Updated event information is available at www.troopfest.org. Free parking is available.

For sponsorship information, contact Julie DeMaria of Operation: Care and Comfort at (408) 373-8635 or via email at troopsupport@comcast.net.

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About Operation: Care and Comfort
Since April 2003, the all-volunteer Operation: Care and Comfort program, unique to the Santa Clara Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross, has shipped over 375,000 pounds of care packages for distribution to Marine, Army, Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard personnel deployed in the conflict regions. Adopted military units receive care packages monthly, until they return home. Operation: Care and Comfort is a member of the Department of Defense "America Supports You" program.  www.operationcareandcomfort.org.

About The American Red Cross
The American Red Cross has provided service for military forces since the Spanish-American War began in 1898. Currently, the American Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Services (AFES) is keeping pace with the changing military. Featuring the latest in computer and telecommunications technology, the American Red Cross Emergency Service Center delivers around-the-clock emergency communication services to active duty military personnel, and to their families. For more information on disaster preparedness, health and safety classes, volunteer opportunities, and financial contributions, visit www.santaclaravalley.redcross.org or call 408-577-1000.

About “America Supports You”
"America Supports You," a nationwide program launched by the Department of Defense in 2004, recognizes citizens' support for our military men and women and communicates that support to members of our Armed Forces at home and abroad. America Supports You spotlights what Americans are doing all across the land, encourages others to join the team, and allows all to tell their stories by giving voice and visibility to their efforts. For more information, visit www.americasupportsyou.mil

About the USS Hornet
The Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet Museum, a registered State and National Historic Landmark, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. Exhibits include the Apollo Moon Mission display and 13 Navy and Marine aircraft, both fixed and rotary wing, ranging from WWII vintage to modern era. Get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and an authentic Apollo space capsule, mission briefings. Also open for public tour are the flight deck, hangar bays, engine room, flight operations, bridge, sick bay, ready rooms, combat information center and the completely-restored captain’s and admiral’s in-port quarters. More info: (510) 521-8448 or www.uss-hornet.org

Media Contact: Stephanie Prothero, (510) 521-8448 x 211 or stephanie.prothero@uss-hornet.org

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April 1, 2008 -- For Immediate Release

USS Hornet Museum Commemorates “Doolittle Raid”
Saturday, April 12, 2008

The USS Hornet Museum will commemorate the “Doolittle Raid” in a Living Ship Day demonstration from 11:00am to 3:00pm on Saturday, April 12, onboard the aircraft carrier berthed at 707 W Hornet Ave, Pier 3, in Alameda, CA.

Andy Popenoe, a historian from the Doolittle Museum in Sacramento, will be one of the featured speakers. He will give a lively presentation about local hero Jimmy Doolittle and the impact of the Doolittle Raid in WWII.

“Doolittle’s Raiders” were an elite group of airmen who executed an historic, daytime air raid against Tokyo in WWII led by legendary pilot Lt. Colonel Jimmy Doolittle, USAAF, who was born in Alameda.

In honor of the Doolittle Raid, the museum will come to life as an operating aircraft carrier. Visitors will participate in mission briefings, meet former crew, sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet, enjoy the sights and sounds of naval aviation and witness simulated flight operations as aircraft are lifted to the flight deck and placed into launch position.

The primary significance of having the Doolittle Raid commemoration on the USS Hornet Museum at Alameda Point is twofold. The current Hornet’s predecessor ship, Hornet-CV8, launched this daring raid, and the raid personnel and their equipment were loaded aboard the Hornet CV-8 at Alameda Point, directly adjacent to where the USS Hornet museum is located.

On April 1, 1942, sixteen B-25 bombers, their five-man volunteer crews, and maintenance personnel were loaded onto the USS Hornet CV-8 at Alameda Naval Air Station. The next day, the Hornet and her escorts sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge for their date with destiny. On April 18, the Raiders flew 650 miles from their launch point in the Pacific, dropped their bombs on several Japanese cities and flew on to China where many crash landed.

Although the raid did little military damage, the Japanese government was deeply embarrassed.  The bombing was a tremendous psychological victory for America, still reeling from the attack on Pearl Harbor. The Japanese military's hasty response was to attack Midway Island, which proved disastrous when their Navy was soundly defeated.

Andy Popenoe served 17 years in the Air Force with 4.5 years in Vietnam participating in 26 of the 27 total campaigns, flying 174 combat missions, and has numerous decorations. He retired from Travis Air Force Base as a command chief master sergeant. After leaving the Air Force, he went on to become president and CEO of ABI, a marine hardware company. He has served for 28 years on the board of directors of Travis Credit Union, the 11th largest in California, and is an avid historian on aviation history in America. He has lived with his family in Fairfield since 1974.

The museum is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Museum admission is $14 for adults and $6 for children 5-17. There is ample free parking. For information about all events call (510) 521-8448 or visit www.uss-hornet.org.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The Aircraft Carrier Hornet Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier.

Included in the numerous exhibits of the USS Hornet are the Apollo Moon Mission display and 13 Navy and Marine aircraft and helicopters, ranging from WWII vintage to modern era. Get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and an authentic Apollo space capsule.

A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Media Contact: Pete Sutherland, (510) 521-8448 x 228 or pete.sutherland@uss-hornet.org

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February 11, 2008 - For Immediate Release

Tommy Dorsey Orchestra makes first appearance aboard the
Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet
Saturday, March 22, 2008

The One and Only Tommy Dorsey Orchestra makes its first appearance aboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet from 8:00pm to midnight, Saturday, March 22.  Doors open at 7:00pm.

With three dance floors on the enclosed, heated hangar deck, the USS Hornet is one of the best places in the Bay Area to swing dance. Period attire is welcome. The Singing Blue Stars of the USS Hornet perform a tribute to the Andrews Sisters, 7:00-7:30pm. Free dance lessons by the San Francisco Jitterbugs, 7:30-8:00pm. Cash bars and food concessions will be available. Plenty of free parking.

In Big Band history, the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra is recognized as one of the best all-around dance bands. It could swing with the best of them and no other band could come close to Tommy’s when it came to playing ballads. Frank Sinatra’s career blossomed with Tommy Dorsey, and, with Sinatra’s vocals, the band became more successful than ever. The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra continues to travel throughout the country and will be led by Daryl “Flea” Campbell.

Dancers and spectators alike can enjoy the many hits that made it to the Billboard charts. Tickets range from $45 for general admission to $95 for special reserved seating.

For information and to purchase tickets: www.uss-hornet.org/dance or call 510-521-8448 x 282. Proceeds benefit USS Hornet Museum, a 501(c)3 Nonprofit Organization.

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About the USS Hornet Museum
The Aircraft Carrier Hornet Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier.

Included in the numerous exhibits of the USS Hornet are the Apollo Moon Mission display and 13 Navy and Marine aircraft and helicopters, ranging from WWII vintage to modern era. Get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and an authentic Apollo space capsule.

A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Media Contact: Stephanie Prothero, (510) 521-8448 x 211 or stephanie.prothero@uss-hornet.org

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January 14, 2008 - For Immediate Release

USS HORNET MUSEUM HONORS AERIAL FIREFIGHTERS
Saturday, February 9, 2008

The USS Hornet Museum in Alameda will unveil a new public exhibit on February 9 that focuses on the history of aerial firefighting in California. Museum visitors will have the opportunity to meet firebomber pilots who courageously combat wildland fires from the air. The grand opening event begins at 1pm.

The "Aerial Firefighting in California" exhibit provides an in-depth look at the history of fighting wildfires from the air by CALFIRE.  Former US Navy aircraft have provided the cornerstone of air-tankers, heli-tack and air-attack operations. A large number of the nation's aerial firefighting pilots, many of whom are former naval aviators, will be onboard the USS Hornet for the grand opening.

Permanently displayed on the USS Hornet is TBM Avenger that was used for firebombing at the end of its career and an US2B Tracker similar to those currently used by the fire services.

Former military aircraft have been the backbone of the state and national airtanker fleets since the 1950s. The nation's fleet of air tankers also include P-3 Orions, DC-4s, DC-6s, and P-2V Neptunes, most of which are owned and operated by private companies under contract with the Forest Service or state forestry departments.

From 14 air attack and nine helitack bases located statewide, aircraft can reach most fires within 20 minutes. Airtactical planes fly overhead directing airtankers and helicopters to critical areas of the fire for retardant and water drops. While both airtankers and helicopters are equipped to carry fire retardant or water, the helicopters can also transport firefighters, equipment and injured personnel. In 2007, CALFIRE responded to 7,605 fires that consumed 371,176 acres.

About the USS Hornet Museum
The aircraft carrier USS Hornet participated in two major events: WWII and the Apollo Moon Mission. The USS Hornet now serves as a floating museum. Exhibits include Apollo spacecraft and Navy military aircraft and rescue helicopters ranging from WWII vintage to modern era. Get a close-up look at a TBM Avenger, an F-14 Tomcat, and an authentic Apollo capsule. Also open for public tour are the ship’s flight deck, hangar deck, engine room, flight control, captain’s bridge, sick bay, pilot ready rooms, and combat information center.

The Aircraft Carrier Hornet Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. The ship is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission is $6-$14 and there is ample free parking across from the pier.

A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the ship is permanently berthed at 707 W. Hornet Avenue, Pier 3 in Alameda, CA. For more information, visit www.uss-hornet.org or call (510) 521-8448.

Media Contact: Bob Fish, (925) 831-8294 or bob.fish@uss-hornet.org

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The USS Hornet Museum inspires people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology first-hand. A registered State and National Historic Landmark, the aircraft carrier is permanently docked at the former naval air station in Alameda, CA and is open to the public from 10am to 5pm. Admission prices are $6-$14 and there is ample free parking. For more information, visit www.hornetevents.com or call (510) 521-8448.

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