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USS Laffey Association to Hold Annual Memorial Service Aboard Beloved Navy Destroyer

Chris Hauff Sep 22, 2016

On Tuesday, September 27th at 10:30 a.m., veterans of the USS Laffey Association will host a memorial service onboard the USS LAFFEY to remember the 32 sailors who died while serving aboard the warship during a fierce attack on April 16, 1945 off the coast of Okinawa, Japan.  The service will also honor the Laffey veterans who have died in the past year.

USS Laffey following damaged sustained during an attack off Okinawa on April 16, 1945.

USS Laffey after sustaining heavy damage during an attack off Okinawa on April 16, 1945.

 

“The USS Laffey is an integral part of our museum and we always welcome the ship’s veterans to come visit her.” said Patriots Point Executive Director Mac Burdette.  “The brave veterans who fought so valiantly under heavy fire by the Japanese on April 16, 1945 and paid the ultimate sacrifice must always be remembered, as must all veterans of the USS Laffey who have served our nation.”

The memorial service is part of several days of events planned for the annual USS Laffey Association Reunion.  Laffey veterans from all eras, including at least one World War II veteran, are expected to be in attendance. A Sumner-class destroyer, the USS Laffey DD-724 has been a part of Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum since 1981.  The USS Laffey was in service for the U.S. Navy from 1944-1975.  The memorial service will be included in the regular price of admission for non-reunion attendees.  It is open to the public. Parking is $5.

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6 thoughts on “USS Laffey Association to Hold Annual Memorial Service Aboard Beloved Navy Destroyer

  1. Beryl Rose says:

    My brother, James Marcelle LaPointe was one of the 32 killed in the attack on April 16th 1945. I would like information on when the next memorial or reunion will be held Thank you.

    1. Molly Hamilton says:

      Good morning Mr. Rose. The best way to get that information is to contact the (new) president of the USS Laffey Association, Chris Kirhagis at [email protected].

      Molly Hamilton
      Public Information & Media Relations

  2. Tom Galemba says:

    I served aboard the Laffey in 1962 – 1963. How do I join the USS Laffey Assiciation for former crew members?

    1. Molly Hamilton says:

      Good morning Mr. Galemba, Sorry for the delayed response. The immediate past president is Sonny Walker. If you email him at [email protected] he should be able to guide you in the right direction.

      Molly Hamilton
      Public Information & Media Relations

  3. jerry Arndt says:

    I served on the Laffey 1963-1965 as SM3 Would like to join association
    Thank you
    Jerry Arndt

    1. Chris Hauff says:

      Hi Jerry,

      Thank you for your service! The current Laffey Association president is Christopher Kirhagis. His email is [email protected]. Please contact him directly to find out how to join.

      Regards,

      Chris Hauff
      Public Information Officer
      Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

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