Bowfin Museum | November 1, 2023

In September, the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum received the Maintenance Excellence Award from the Naval History and Heritage Command for its highly successful towing and drydocking of the USS Bowfin last year.

The 80-year-old WWII submarine was towed to Honolulu Harbor and back for drydock maintenance. Before this $2.4 million project, the USS Bowfin had undergone similar drydock work only twice since her decommissioning in 1954. This comprehensive maintenance ensures the submarine is safe for public display and visits, preserving its legacy until 2040.

“We are deeply honored to receive the Maintenance Excellence Award, a testament to our dedication in preserving the legacy of the USS Bowfin and the history of our U.S. Navy’s submarine force during combat and peacetime,” said Executive Director Chuck Merkel.

The award banner will hang in the museum next to the Museum Overall Excellence Award banner received in 2021 for outstanding achievement in operations, curation/conservation, exhibitory, and U.S. Navy history education.

Become a Member of the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park HERE.