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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the USS Forrestal Museum, Inc.?
A nonprofit, 501(c)(3) approved, organization that is working on a plan to acquire, restore, and display the USS Forrestal in an interactive educational and entertainment center known as the Forrestal complex. This 21st century, state of the art complex will serve as a tribute to the USS Forrestal and Naval Aviation. It will include historic exhibits, educational activities and programs, and attractions for all walks of life. It will become an important part of the revitalization of Baltimore City.
What's the time line?
We are optimistic we will be awarded the ship. After relocation, conversion, and restoration, we hope to have the ship ready for visitors within 3 months of it's arrival in Baltimore.
Why the USS Forrestal?
For 38 years, in peacetime and in conflict, USS Forrestal stood ready to answer the call to preserve our nation's freedom and proudly carry the flag anywhere in the world. This mighty carrier achieved countless milestones and set impressive standards of excellence that to this day have yet to be surpassed. A tragic fire of epic proportions took place onboard Forrestal, off the coast of North Vietnam in June 1967. This incident, drastically altered the Navy's concepts and methods of firefighting at sea, cementing Forrestal's place in our nation's history.
What is the status of the USS Forrestal?
The Navy officially retired the Forrestal from active Naval service on September 11, 1993 and the ship was stricken from the rolls. Her hulk is currently located at the Newport Naval Shipyard, Newport, RI. The nation's first "Super Carrier", built for the Cold War, had done her job. In the usual irony of military success, victory called for her premature retirement.
What is the condition of the USS Forrestal?
In 1993, when the US Navy made the decision to de-commission the Forrestal, the ship was mid-way through a 580 million dollar overhaul. When Forrestal arrived in dry-dock in 1992 she was praised by shipyard personnel as the best prepared carrier to enter the shipyard for overhaul in more than 20 years. Even while undergoing overhaul, visiting Flag Officers were all impressed with the ship's cleanliness and progress of the overhaul. Because the ship is in such good condition, conversion and restoration work can proceed quickly once she is acquired.
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