PRESS RELEASE - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Rolf Snyder
Office: 913-642-5134
Cell: 913-244-4782

MUSEUM TO GET FAMOUS LIFEBOAT

Fort Pierce, FL July 31, 2009 – On August 14, 2009, the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum will be receiving the lifeboat which was used during the events surrounding the hijacking of the MV Maersk Alabama. The Maersk Alabama hijacking was a series of events involving piracy that began on April 8, 2009 with four Somali pirates seizing the cargo ship MV Maersk Alabama 240 nautical miles (440 km; 280 mi) southeast of the Somalia port city of Eyl. Shortly thereafter, Capt. Richard Philips was taken hostage and held for ransom on one of the lifeboats belonging to the Maersk Alabama. On Friday, April 10, a group of US Navy SEALs were deployed to the USS Bainbridge (stationed nearby) and on Sunday April 12, Capt. Richard Philips (the only remaining hostage) was rescued in good condition by the US Navy SEALs.

“This lifeboat represents a piece of living history: this is a modern artifact”, said Museum Curator Ruth McSween.” “It is not often that we get something this timely and relevant to current events around the world”, she elaborated. “Through the extremely generous efforts of Maersk Lines Limited, we were able to secure this most valuable asset” stated Museum Executive Director, and retired US Navy SEAL, Michael Howard. “This is a treasure, and not only does it drive home what the SEALs are about, it puts things in a modern context, which makes it more culturally relevant to our younger visitors.”

The formal unveiling of the lifeboat will be at the National Navy SEAL Museum, on August 14, 2009 at 10AM. Representatives from Maersk Lines Limited as well as members from the Museum will be on hand.

The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum is the only museum dedicated solely to preserving the history of the Navy SEALs and their predecessors, including the Underwater Demolition Teams, Naval Combat Demolition Units, Office of Strategic Services Maritime Units and Amphibious Scouts and Raiders. Located in Fort Pierce, Florida - the birthplace of the Navy Frogman - the Museum promotes public education by providing the opportunity to explore the history of the Navy SEALs in an atmosphere of respect and honor.

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If you would like more information about this topic please contact Rolf Snyder at 913-244-4782 or per email at HRolf.Snyder@gmail.com.

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