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BUOYED BY COMMUNITY SUPPORT, NAVAL PARK SURPASSES $1,000,000 IN CAMPAIGN DONATIONS TO SAVE THE SULLIVANS

November 15, 2021/in News/by admin

BUFFALO, NY – The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park has reached a historic milestone. The Park announced the Save the Sullivans Campaign has surpassed the $1,000,000 fundraising goal. This represents the largest fundraising initiative for the Park since its founding more than 40 years ago. The announcement was made by Terence McGuire, Chairman, Buffalo and Erie County Naval &
Military Park Board of Directors.

“I am thrilled to announce we have surpassed our goal to raise $1,000,000 to save USS The Sullivans.” commented Terence McGuire. “This historic accomplishment would not have been possible without the leadership and passion of many people. On behalf of the board of directors, I want to thank Kelly Sullivan and Douglas Jemal who served as campaign Co-Captains, Dr. John Long, along with Scott Bieler and Brad Hafner of West Herr Auto Group for their leadership gift early in our campaign. And a special thank you to young Arrow Swartwout, who emptied his piggy bank to donate to the campaign.”

Launched in March 2021, the Save the Sullivans Campaign raised $535,000 from a variety of sources including individuals, foundations, corporations and government entities. West Herr Auto Group provided a lead gift of $50,000 representing the largest single private donation. In October, the Park received a $499,000 Save America’s Treasures grant bringing the campaign total to $1,034,000.

“We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the local community and from around the world. The campaign received donations from across the United States, Canada and six other countries.” commented Paul Marzello, president and CEO for the Park. “The money raised from the community allowed repair work to begin in earnest this summer to save this historic ship. It is fitting that we make this announcement today, 15 November 2021, 79 years almost to the day that the five Sullivan brothers paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.”

USS The Sullivans (DD-537), a 78-year-old Fletcher-Class destroyer that saw action in World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War is a major attraction at The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park. USS The Sullivans is named in honor of the five Sullivan brothers who, serving together on the light cruiser USS Juneau, were all killed in action on its sinking around November 13, 1942. The ship was christened by the fallen brothers’ mother, Alleta Sullivan, and is a National Historic Landmark. It holds a special place in our nation’s military history and a special place on the Buffalo Waterfront.

In February of 2021, damage to the ship’s hull resulted in leaks that put the ship in danger of sinking. The Naval Park launched a special fundraising campaign, Save the Sullivans, to raise the $1,000,000 needed to complete hull repairs. Douglas Jemal of Douglas Development volunteered to act as Campaign Captain of Save the Sullivans. Kelly Sullivan, the granddaughter of Albert Sullivan, the youngest of the five Sullivan brothers, is Campaign Co-Captain with Jemal. Kelly Sullivan, sponsor of USS The Sullivans DDG 68, is a third grade school teacher in Waterloo, Iowa.

Repair work of the hull is being performed by BIDCO Marine Group, a locally owned specialty marine contractor. BIDCO previously conducted a full bow-to-stern survey of the hull and developed the repair plan which includes applying a two-part epoxy coating to the entire hull below the waterline and the installation of a cathodic protection system that will prevent further corrosion of the USS The Sullivans, the USS Little Rock, and the USS Croaker.

 

About the Buffalo and Erie County Military & Naval Park
The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, is the nation’s largest inland naval park and the home of four U.S. Naval vessels: USS The Sullivans, USS Little Rock, USS Croaker, and PTF-17. Located on Buffalo’s Waterfront, this unique family destination is committed to its mission, which is to honor, educate, inspire, and preserve. The Buffalo Naval & Military Park also features a museum, United States military exhibits, and a beautifully manicured Veterans Park with 14 monuments and memorials dedicated to those who served our country.

More information about the Buffalo Naval & Military Park is available at BuffaloNavalPark.org.

https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg 0 0 admin https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg admin2021-11-15 15:03:212021-11-16 15:07:29BUOYED BY COMMUNITY SUPPORT, NAVAL PARK SURPASSES $1,000,000 IN CAMPAIGN DONATIONS TO SAVE THE SULLIVANS

ERIE COUNTY RSVP PROGRAM, HOMELAND SECURITY AND EMERGENCY SERVICES DEPARTMENT JOIN PARTNERS IN HONORING 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11

September 7, 2021/in News/by admin

Erie County Selected as 1 of 60 Communities in the United States to Lead a New National 9/11 Day of Remembrance Project

9/11 Day of Service, sponsored by the RSVP program, will include a food drive for FeedMore of WNY from 8:00-4:00 and a blood drive for the American Red Cross

ERIE COUNTY, NY— On Saturday, September 11, 2021, Erie County will join 60 communities across the country to memorialize those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001 in a special ceremony hosted by the Erie County Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (“RSVP”), the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, the Erie County Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, the WNY Iraq/Afghanistan Memorial, and Explore & More- The Ralph C Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum. The ceremony will take place rain or shine at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park on Saturday at 8:30 AM.

The 60 sites will read the names of all 2,977 men, women, and children who lost their lives on 9/11, with each site assigned 50 names. In addition to the 50 assigned names, Erie County volunteers will be reading 29 names of people with a connection to Western New York, as well as the names of local first responders who died due to their service at Ground Zero. Additionally, the Iraq/Afghanistan Memorial Committee will read the names of the Western New Yorkers who died in the ensuing War on Terror. Community members are invited to submit names they would like to be remembered by visiting the Naval Park website.

“Western New Yorkers played a significant role in the response to 9/11, both as first responder volunteers and as National Guard members deployed to Ground Zero,” said Daniel Neaverth, Jr., Commissioner of the Erie County Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. “This event provides us an opportunity to honor their service and remember those who lost their lives that day.”

Activities commence with the national anthem sung by Buffalo’s Singing Cops, Officers Moe Badger and Michael Norwood Jr., with additional music provided by the Greater Buffalo Firefighters Pipes and Drums and the Buffalo Niagara Concert Band. Color Guards from the Buffalo Fire Department, Buffalo Police Department, and United States Coast Guard Sector Buffalo will raise the 9/11 Flag of Honor. The Edward M. Cotter fireboat will provide a tribute marking the event.

“The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park’s mission to honor, educate, inspire, and preserve is reflected in our commitment to remembering 9/11,” said Paul Marzello, President & CEO of the Naval Park. “The role this event played in our country’s military history over the past 20 years cannot be overstated, and we are honored to be able to be part of ensuring that Western New York never forgets these tragic events.”

The memorial ceremony will kick off a day of events at the Naval Park dedicated to 9/11. The 9/11 Day of Service, sponsored by the RSVP program, will include a food drive for FeedMore of WNY from 8:00-4:00 and a blood drive for the American Red Cross from 11:30-3:30. Donors can register for the blood drive by visiting the Red Cross website  and nonperishable food items can be brought to the Naval Park gift shop. From 11:00-3:00, families can visit the free Honk for Heroes family event that will showcase military, law enforcement, and first responder vehicles, aircraft, and personnel. Additionally, admission to both the Naval Park and Explore & More will be pay-what-you-can on that day thanks to Geico and Bank of America.

                                                                                                 ###

 Background:

The Erie County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (“RSVP”) is a program of AmeriCorps Seniors that supports hundreds of volunteers at sites throughout Erie County and is a program of the Erie County Department of Senior Services. For more information visit:

https://www2.erie.gov/seniorservices/index.php?q=volunteer-amp-employment

 

The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, a 501c3 organization, is the nation’s largest inland naval park and is committed to its mission, which is to honor, educate, inspire, and preserve. Located on Buffalo’s Waterfront, this unique family destination features four decommissioned Naval vessels that served in a variety of military conflicts in our nation’s history.

To learn more visit https://buffalonavalpark.org/

https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg 0 0 admin https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg admin2021-09-07 18:28:122021-09-07 18:29:22ERIE COUNTY RSVP PROGRAM, HOMELAND SECURITY AND EMERGENCY SERVICES DEPARTMENT JOIN PARTNERS IN HONORING 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11

BUFFALO NAVAL PARK SETS SAIL ON $1,000,000 CAMPAIGN TO SAVE THE SULLIVANS - DOUGLAS JEMAL COMMITS TO LEADING EFFORT

March 12, 2021/in News/by admin

BUFFALO, NY – The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park has officially launched the largest fundraising campaign in the 40-year history of the Park. With a goal of $1,000,000, Save The Sullivans is set to raise the money needed to make permanent repairs to the hull of the USS The Sullivans.

USS The Sullivans (DD-537), a 78-year-old Fletcher-Class destroyer that saw action in World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War, is a major attraction at The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park. USS The Sullivans is named in honor of the five Sullivan brothers who, serving together on the light cruiser USS Juneau, were all killed in action on its sinking around November 13, 1942. The ship was christened by the fallen brothers’ mother, Alleta Sullivan, and is a National Historic Landmark. It holds a special place in our nation’s military history and a special place on the Buffalo Waterfront.

“Decades of harsh weather in Buffalo have taken a toll on the ship. The severely weakened hull was recently compromised below the waterline and the ship began taking on water,” commented Paul Marzello, president and CEO for the Buffalo Naval Park. “A full bow-to-stern survey of the ship’s hull was conducted, and an engineered plan developed for the necessary repairs. It involves applying a two-part epoxy coating to the entire hull below the waterline and the installation of a cathodic protection system that will prevent further corrosion of the USS The Sullivans, the USS Little Rock and the USS Croaker.”

Douglas Jemal of Douglas Development has volunteered to act as Campaign Captain of Save the Sullivans. “It is an honor for me to be a part of the effort to preserve this ship and honor the service and sacrifice of the Sullivan brothers,” commented Jemal.

The official launch of the Save the Sullivans campaign will be marked by a private fundraiser hosted by Jemal on St. Patrick’s Day at the Naval Park. The invitation-only event will be the first major push toward raising the $1,000,000.

Kelly Sullivan, the granddaughter of Albert Sullivan, the youngest of the five Sullivan brothers, is making a special trip to Buffalo to attend the Save the Sullivans party. Douglas Jemal is covering travel and accommodation costs for Kelly to be in Buffalo for the event. Kelly, sponsor of USS The Sullivans DDG-68, is a third grade school teacher in Waterloo, Iowa.

Sullivan’s Brewing Company is also jumping on board the campaign effort. Michael Meade, a Buffalo native and CEO of the Kilkenny, Ireland based brewery, was instrumental in bringing Sullivan’s beer to North America and launching in Buffalo a few years ago. “Buffalo is a second home for Sullivan’s. When we heard about the need to save the USS The Sullivans, it was a natural for us to get involved and help,” commented Meade. In addition to donating beer for the event, a team from Sullivan’s including brand ambassador and voice of the Buffalo Bills John Murphy will be on hand pouring Sullivan’s for guests.

Calling all Sullivans. In an effort to draw in more participation to the Save The Sullivans campaign, the Naval Park is asking all people with the last name Sullivan to contribute to the effort by making a $5.00 donation.

Contributions to the Save the Sullivans campaign can be made securely online at SAVETHESULLIVANS.ORG or by mailing to Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, ATTN: Save the Sullivans, One Naval Cove, Buffalo, New York, 14202, or by calling the park directly at 716-847-1773, EXT 10.


About the Buffalo and Erie County Military & Naval Park

In 1976, the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency and a group of community supporters gathered together to create a non-profit organization in order to submit a request to the U.S. Navy for a decommissioned naval vessel as part of a waterfront development plan.

The Navy granted their request and, in 1977 donated a destroyer and a guided missile cruiser to the City of Buffalo. After two years of fundraising and restoration, the newly formed organization opened to the public on July 4, 1979. In subsequent years The Park has added substantially to its collection of military artifacts.

The current collection includes a Fletcher-Class Destroyer, USS The Sullivans (DD-537), named after the five Sullivan brothers who died aboard ship while serving on the USS Juneau in 1942; the only Cleveland-Class Light Cruiser left in existence, USS Little Rock (CL-92/CLG-4/CG-4); Gato-Class submarine, USS Croaker (SS/SSK/AGSS/IXSS-246); Vietnam-era PTF-17 boat; UH-1 Huey Helicopter; Nike Hercules Missile and launcher; M-41 Walker Bulldog Tank; F101 Voodoo Jet, and much more.

The Park is the largest inland naval park in the country.  Western New York is home to one of the largest concentrations of military veterans in the United States making The Park a popular attraction as well as a center of pride with this stakeholder group.

More information about The Park is available at buffalonavalpark.org.

https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg 0 0 admin https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg admin2021-03-12 21:36:082021-03-12 21:45:45BUFFALO NAVAL PARK SETS SAIL ON $1,000,000 CAMPAIGN TO SAVE THE SULLIVANS - DOUGLAS JEMAL COMMITS TO LEADING EFFORT

CAMPAIGN UPDATE: COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND WEST HERR $50,000 DONATION HELPS NAVAL PARK EXCEED EMERGENCY FUNDRAISING GOAL; DOUGLAS JEMAL COMMITS TO LEADING EFFORT TO FINISH THE JOB AND RAISE $1,000,000.

March 2, 2021/in News/by admin

BUFFALO, NY – The Buffalo and Erie County Military & Naval Park has exceeded its goal to raise $100,000 for emergency hull repairs for USS The Sullivans, but there is more work to be done. Park officials are now focused on raising $1,000,000 needed for permanent repairs to the historic USS The Sullivans.

“We knew Buffalo being the City of Good Neighbors would come through and raise the money needed to keep The Sullivans from sinking, we didn’t know we would exceed our initial goal by such a significant amount,” commented Paul Marzello, president and CEO of the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park. “Donations came in and continue to come in from veterans, family members of veterans, the general public, and the business community. The generosity of the people of Western New York is incredible.” At last count, a total of $230,000 has been raised with more donations coming in.

Lending a major hand in this effort was Scott Bieler, President and CEO of the West Herr Automotive Group. West Herr donated $50,000 to the effort as a community challenge to accelerate the initiative. “Thank you to Scott Bieler and the West Herr Automotive Group for their leadership gift” added Marzello.

“We know how critical the Naval Park and the USS The Sullivans is to Western New York. When we heard of the emergency fundraising need we immediately felt compelled to help. West Herr is honored and humbled to play a part in assisting this collective community effort,” said Bieler.

With the emergency fundraising goal met, the Naval Park is now focused on raising the $1,000,000 needed for long-term repairs for the USS The Sullivans. “In addition to making a major contribution to the All Hands On Deck campaign, Douglas Jemal of Douglas Development stepped in and has agreed to Captain the next phase of our fundraising effort to raise a total of $1,000,000 to save The Sullivans,” added Marzello.

The plan to permanently repair the hull of the USS The Sullivans requires a full underwater team of divers that will apply an epoxy coating to the entire exterior hull of the ship. The process which creates a water-tight barrier that strengthens and protects the thin steel of the hull from further deterioration is expected to take 3-4 months to complete.

“Major gifts from Scott Bieler, Douglas Jemal and others are providing great initial momentum and we hope those efforts will encourage others to support this cause all the way to the $1,000,000 mark,” Marzello said.

The Naval Park is now extending the All Hands On Deck campaign to Save the Sullivans with a goal of raising the $1,000,000 dollars it needs to permanently repair the USS The Sullivans. Contributions can be made securely online at keepingourshipsafloat.org or by sending contributions to The Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, ATTN: All HANDS ON DECK, One Naval Cove, Buffalo, NY 14202 or by contacting the Naval Park directly at 716-847-1773.

About the Buffalo and Erie County Military & Naval Park
In 1976, the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency and a group of community supporters gathered together to create a non-profit organization in order to submit a request to the U.S. Navy for a decommissioned naval vessel as part of a waterfront development plan.

The Navy granted their request, and in 1977, donated a destroyer and a guided missile cruiser to the City of Buffalo. After two years of fundraising and restoration, the newly formed organization opened to the public on July 4, 1979. In subsequent years The Park has added substantially to its collection of military artifacts.

The current collection includes a Fletcher-Class Destroyer, USS The Sullivans (DD-537), named after the five Sullivan brothers who died aboard ship while serving on the USS Juneau in 1942; the only Cleveland-Class Light Cruiser left in existence, USS Little Rock (CL-92/CLG-4/CG-4); Gato-Class submarine, USS Croaker (SS/SSK/AGSS/IXSS-246); Vietnam-era PTF-17 boat; UH-1 Huey Helicopter; Nike Hercules Missile and launcher; M-41 Walker Bulldog Tank; F101 Voodoo Jet, and much more.

The Park is the largest inland naval park in the country. Western New York is home to one of the largest concentrations of military veterans in the United States making The Park a popular attraction as well as a center of pride with this stakeholder group.

More information about The Park is available at buffalonavalpark.org.

https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg 0 0 admin https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg admin2021-03-02 20:04:112021-03-02 20:10:58CAMPAIGN UPDATE: COMMUNITY SUPPORT AND WEST HERR $50,000 DONATION HELPS NAVAL PARK EXCEED EMERGENCY FUNDRAISING GOAL; DOUGLAS JEMAL COMMITS TO LEADING EFFORT TO FINISH THE JOB AND RAISE $1,000,000.

NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK USS THE SULLIVANS IN DANGER OF SINKING - NAVAL PARK SEEKING $100,000 IN DONATIONS FOR EMERGENCY HULL REPAIRS

February 26, 2021/in News/by admin

 

BUFFALO, NY – Officials from the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park were already facing a difficult winter offseason due to lost revenue from the pandemic. Now, harsh Buffalo winter weather and damaging winds have created a serious situation for the largest inland naval museum in North America. USS The Sullivans (DD-537), a 78-year-old Fletcher-Class destroyer and major attraction at the Naval Park, is in danger of sinking unless emergency repairs can be made to her hull.

“Routine hull maintenance is required with ships of this age.” commented Paul Marzello, president and CEO of the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park. “The harsh Buffalo winter weather has severely damaged the hull of USS The Sullivans below the waterline so there is significant water coming into the ship. She is currently listing to port quite noticeably. If we cannot repair the hull and stop the water, she will sink.”

The Naval Park has a plan for long-term repair to the hull of The Sullivans that was scheduled to begin in the spring and summer of 2021. With a cost of more than $1,000,000, the Naval Park is awaiting final funding from a number of sources.

The Naval Park is using pumps to remove water from the ship; however they are struggling to keep up and more damage could occur. “We expect another four to six weeks of tough weather ahead, so there is potential for even more hull damage. At this point the ship requires $100,000 in emergency repairs just to keep her afloat until we can begin the long-term repairs. We are asking for help from the public to raise the $100,000. We need All Hands on Deck to help.”
added Marzello.

The Park, which welcomes more than 70,000 visitors in a typical year is a major tourist attraction for the region. The Park saw a significant decline in visitors and revenue due to the pandemic restrictions. In July of 2020 the Naval Park launched a major fundraising campaign called All Hands On Deck to raise money to support Park operations. Given the urgent need to pay for the emergency hull repairs, the Naval Park is extending the All Hands On Deck campaign and asking for donations from the general public. Contributions can be made securely online at keepingourshipsafloat.org or by contacting the Naval Park at 716-847-1773.

 

About the Buffalo and Erie County Military & Naval Park
In 1976, the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency and a group of community supporters gathered together to create a non-profit organization in order to submit a request to the U.S. Navy for a decommissioned naval vessel as part of a waterfront development plan.

The Navy granted their request, and in 1977, donated a destroyer and a guided missile cruiser to the City of Buffalo. After two years of fundraising and restoration, the newly formed organization opened to the public on July 4, 1979. In subsequent years The Park has added substantially to its collection of military artifacts.

The current collection includes a Fletcher-Class Destroyer, USS The Sullivans (DD-537), named after the five Sullivan brothers who died aboard ship while serving on the USS Juneau in 1942; the only Cleveland-Class Light Cruiser left in existence, USS Little Rock (CL-92/CLG-4/CG-4); Gato-Class submarine, USS Croaker (SS/SSK/AGSS/IXSS-246); Vietnam-era PTF-17 boat; UH-1 Huey Helicopter; Nike Hercules Missile and launcher; M-41 Walker Bulldog Tank; F101 Voodoo Jet, and much more.

The Park is the largest inland naval park in the country. Western New York is home to one of the largest concentrations of military veterans in the United States making The Park a popular attraction as well as a center of pride with this stakeholder group.

More information about The Park is available at buffalonavalpark.org.

https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg 0 0 admin https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg admin2021-02-26 12:08:012021-02-26 17:08:23NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK USS THE SULLIVANS IN DANGER OF SINKING - NAVAL PARK SEEKING $100,000 IN DONATIONS FOR EMERGENCY HULL REPAIRS

Explore & More and the Buffalo Naval Park Honor Local Veterans this Veterans Day

November 6, 2020/in News/by admin

Buffalo, NY – Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum along with the Buffalo & Erie County Military & Naval Park, are once
again honoring our nation’s Veterans this November through a series of events from November 1-11.

Explore & More is offering Veterans free admission on Veterans Day, November 11th. This is in addition to the ongoing free admission for active military members and their families, with the support of National Fuel, through the Blue Star Museum program.

On November 7th, through a special partnership with the Veterans One Stop Center, Veterans who have pre-registered will also receive free admission to the museum! Throughout the event, the museum is also collecting toiletry items for the 914th at the Niagara Falls Airbase. Deployed troops often need basic supplies like soap, shampoo and deodorant, to name a few, due to the challenging environment and difficulty in obtaining supplies abroad. By collecting and sending care packages, we can help give our deployed troops a sense of comfort and a reminder that we are thinking of them. The public is encouraged to drop off toiletries or purchase items from our Amazon Wishlist, developed in conjunction with National Fuel.

“As a children’s museum, we feel it is a part of our mission to teach children how important it is to honor our Veterans,” states Michelle Urbanczyk, Chief Executive Officer at Explore & More. “We are so lucky to have such an incredible veteran community in Western New York and we invite them all in for some fun and play this Veterans Day.”

In collaboration with the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park, the organizations are collecting photos of Veterans to create a collage that will hang at Explore & More in November and then move to the Naval Park in 2021. The public is asked to submit their photos of themselves and/or their family along with a special veteran in their life. We also ask to share a brief description of why that veteran is so special to them! Photos can be posted on social media using #VeteransDayCollage2020 or emailed directly to jess@heartsome.marketing.

Paul Marzello, President and CEO of the Buffalo Naval Park, states: “Western New York is home to one of the largest concentrations of military veterans in the United States, making the Naval Park a popular attraction as well as a center of pride with this stakeholder group. We look forward to our collaboration with Explore & More and appreciate each and every opportunity to support and honor our veterans, especially on Veteran’s Day.”

Throughout the event the children’s museum will also host a variety of in-person and virtual educational opportunities for children to learn about and honor Veterans. From painting American flag stained glass and writing thank you letters to send to deployed troops to hearing Storytime stories read by Veterans there many ways for children to engage with our Veteran community.

About Explore & More
Explore & More’s mission is to provide best-in-class PLAY experiences where all children, families and the community can explore, learn and
develop together. A world where play unlocks the limitless potential in all of us. After 20+ years in East Aurora, the museum moved to its new home
at Canalside in 2019, expanding to 4 floors and over 40,000 square feet of play. Visit exploreandmore.org and connect with us on Facebook,
Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

About Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park
In 1976, the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency and a group of community supporters gathered to create a non-profit organization and request a decommissioned naval vessel from the U.S. Navy as part of a waterfront development plan. The Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park opened in 1979 and is the largest inland naval park in the country. It is the home to four decommissioned naval vessels, a museum, monuments garden, and military displays. Its mission is to preserve the military artifacts entrusted to our care; honor veterans, active military, and military families; educate about the history and values of service and sacrifice in defense of freedom; and inspire a sense of patriotism and appreciation in protecting the right to liberty and justice for all. Visit buffalonavalpark.org and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and
YouTube.

https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg 0 0 admin https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg admin2020-11-06 16:23:432020-11-09 16:29:36Explore & More and the Buffalo Naval Park Honor Local Veterans this Veterans Day

The Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park is Open Through Labor Day then Shifts to Weekends

August 26, 2020/in News/by admin

BUFFALO, NY — The Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park announced the Park and the historic Naval ships moored on the Buffalo Waterfront will be open for public tours through Labor Day, September 7, and will then shift to weekend operations for the remainder of the month. After Labor Day, the Naval Park will be open Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00am to 4:00pm, with the last ticket sold at 3:00pm each day.

Visitors seeking to tour the exterior main decks of USS The Sullivans, USS Little Rock, USS Croaker, and the Naval Park’s museum can do so at a reduced rate for the remainder of this season. Admission is limited through timed ticketing with advance online ticket purchase at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/buffalonavalpark.

The final day for visitors of the 2020 season will be Sunday, September 27th. This is approximately one month earlier than in the past. The Park plans to use the additional time for exhibit maintenance and development of new programs and events that will build on the safeguards instituted this season.

“It is no surprise opening this summer was a challenge for the Naval Park as it was for many attractions,” commented Paul Marzello, President and CEO of the Naval Park. “Our staff and volunteers went above and beyond to get the Park open and safe for visitors. Attendance has been steady through the summer. We did not see the volume we did last year, but we are full-steam ahead with our plans for 2021.”

In an effort to help raise much needed funds to offset the losses in revenue resulting from the COVID pandemic, the Naval Park has launched an All Hands On Deck campaign. With a goal of $100,000, the All Hands On Deck campaign includes a general fund drive through direct mail, email and online giving, as well as support from corporate sponsors. The Naval Park is also selling limited edition All Hands On Deck Challenge Coins. Only 1,000 Challenge Coins were minted and appeal to collectors in Western New York and across the country. To date, the Naval Park has reached nearly 45% of its goal to raise $100,000.

Information about the All Hands On Deck campaign, Challenge Coins and how to give securely online can be found at buffalonavalpark.org/allhandsondeck.

 

https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg 0 0 admin https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg admin2020-08-26 20:46:552020-08-27 15:12:31The Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park is Open Through Labor Day then Shifts to Weekends

Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park to Open July 15th

July 13, 2020/in News/by admin

BUFFALO, NY – After the normal off-season and an unexpected three-month delay due to COVID-19, the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park will be ready to open for the 2020 season on Wednesday 15 July 2020 at 10:00am. The announcement was made by Paul Marzello, president and CEO for the Naval Park. “I am very excited that we are able to welcome back visitors to the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park for the 2020 season” commented Marzello. “For a time, we were not sure opening was going to be possible. The Naval Park used the extended time-off to clean, sanitize, plan, and modify facilities and exhibits to maximize visitor experience within a safe environment.”

The Naval Park, which welcomes more than 70,000 visitors in a typical year, has had to make substantial modifications due to COVID-19. In addition to adjusting exhibits and tour routes to accommodate social distancing, employees and volunteers will now make face coverings a part of their uniforms. Visitors will also be required to wear face coverings while visiting the Naval Park. Additionally, tours of the ships (USS Little Rock, USS The Sullivans and USS Croaker) will be self-guided and limited to the exterior main deck only. “While we have modified the manner in which visitors experience the Naval Park, we think we have captured the best parts and enhanced the experience. Our crew of docents are extremely knowledgeable and provide unique insights during the tours” commented Marzello.

In addition to the ships, the Naval Park monuments, main exhibit building, retail shop and concessions will all be open for business. Liberty Hound, a popular lunch and dinner destination, will also be open with special hours and dining arrangements.

The Naval Park will be open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00am-5:00pm. Naval Park officials anticipate opening more areas of the ships in the future and are offering reduced admission prices in the meantime. Adults (13 yrs.- 64 yrs.) $10.00, Youth (5 yrs.-12 yrs.) $5.00, Seniors (65 yrs.+) and Veterans $8.00, Children 4 and under are FREE. Naval Park members, Active Duty military and Blue Star families receive FREE admission. “Even with the increase in costs of COVID-19 protocols and PPE requirements, we felt it was important to keep The Naval Park accessible to families, so we have not raised prices – to the contrary, we have reduced prices” added Marzello.

The Naval Park which typically hosts numerous events including fundraisers, commemoration ceremonies and private events, is evaluating events on a case-by-case basis given the ongoing COVID-19 situation.

 

All Hands On Deck campaign puts out the call for assistance
Although The Naval Park will be open, the non-profit organization finds itself in difficult financial situation and is launching a major fundraising campaign. All Hands On Deck is an initiative that will raise money to support Naval Park operations. “Due to limitations of COVID-19, The Naval Park has had a significant drop in operating revenue and must replace this revenue to stay afloat.” commented Terence McGuire, chairman of the board of directors for The Naval Park. “As a nonprofit organization, The Naval Park has always relied on support from private donors and foundations, as well as corporate support. This year, with the loss of revenue, The Naval Park must raise $100,000 with the All Hands On Deck campaign.” Money raised by the effort will directly support Park operations including personnel cost, ship and exhibit maintenance, overhead expenses, and safety equipment for volunteer docents – most of whom are veterans.

All Hands On Deck includes a general fund drive through direct mail, email and online giving, as well as support from corporate sponsors. The Naval Park is also selling limited edition All Hands On Deck Challenge Coins. Only 1000 Challenge Coins were minted and appeal to collectors in Western New York and across the country. Information about the All Hands On Deck campaign and
how to give securely online can be found at www.buffalonavalpark.org/allhandsondeck.

https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg 0 0 admin https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg admin2020-07-13 20:58:272020-08-26 21:22:22Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park to Open July 15th

One Life - One Flag Memorial Day Commemoration at the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park

May 23, 2020/in News/by admin

The Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park and The Battle Within Foundation are joining forces to host a socially distant Memorial Day weekend salute. Throughout Memorial Day weekend, 7,300 flags will blanket the grounds of the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park to represent the United States Veterans who have lost their battle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Despite the best efforts of family, friends, the VA, and scores of dedicated Veterans-based organizations, approximately 20 Veterans each day are lost to us due to complications from wounds and injuries we cannot see. That’s 7,300 brave men and women a year who swore an oath to protect and defend our country, and experienced the unimaginable in our name. Unfortunately, they made it through one war, only to come home to fight another – PTSD.

Paul Marzello, President and CEO of the Buffalo Naval Park, stated: “It is a fitting tribute to be commemorating our fallen heroes on Memorial Day at the Buffalo Naval Park under the grand and glorious flag that flies above us. In addition, we are reminded by the 7,300 flags planted in the grounds around us that the pain and suffering of war continues long after our soldiers return home. Let us keep them all in our prayers.”

The historic war memorials at the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park’s Monuments Garden provide the quintessential place to honor several lifetimes of service in the U.S. Armed Forces. Located in a green oasis along the waterfront, the Monuments Garden is home to many monuments including the Iraq-Afghanistan Monument, Vietnam Memorial, Purple Heart Memorial, Hispanic and Latino Memorial, and The Battle Within PTSD Monument. This space serves as a quiet place for remembrance and reflection.

“It is our sincerest hope that this display of flags will in some small way help educate the public to this ongoing tragedy, provide a lifeline to the suffering, and honor our heroes for their service, regardless of where they died,” stated Dr. Mark Donnelly, The Battle Within Foundation President.

Anyone who wishes to make a $20.20 or greater donation to the Buffalo Naval Park will receive one of the flags from the One Life – One Flag installation along with a certificate. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Battle Within Foundation to help provide resources for Veterans who are struggling with PTSD. Additional information can be found at buffalonavalpark.org/event/onelifeoneflag.

 

https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg 0 0 admin https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg admin2020-05-23 14:48:502020-08-27 14:49:23One Life - One Flag Memorial Day Commemoration at the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park

"The Battle Within" Monument Unveiling

April 29, 2019/in News/by admin

“A tribute to those we will always carry, and to those we can no longer hold.”

Join us for a compelling ceremony on Memorial Day 2019 at the Buffalo Naval Park, where a new monument bringing awareness to PTSD will be unveiled. The statue will be situated at the Naval Park’s Heros Walk, between the Vietnam Monument and the Iraq/Afghanistan Monument. The ceremony will begin at 10:30am.

“It is our sincerest goal that this simple monument will help educate the public to this ongoing tragedy, provide a lifeline to the suffering, and honor our heroes for their service, regardless of where they died,” stated Mark Donnelly, the Harmonie Lodge No. 699 OM foundation’s president, who helped to get the initiative underway after one of the Masonic Brothers took his life while battling depression and post-traumatic stress after three deployments in Afghanistan.

https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg 0 0 admin https://buffalonavalpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/BuffaloNavalPark_Logo_Vert.jpg admin2019-04-29 14:30:192020-08-26 21:25:57"The Battle Within" Monument Unveiling
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  • Phone:

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    info@buffalonavalpark.org

  • Address:

    1 Naval Park Cove, Buffalo, NY, 14202

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    Reopening on March 25, 2023

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