The USS Orleck, docked Downtown on the St. Johns River, hopes to open to the public as a floating naval museum in June, in time for Jacksonville's bicentennial.
The Jacksonville Naval Museum will feature what the museum association calls "the U.S. Navy Cold War Experience," paying tribute to generations of veterans and serving as a gathering place for naval associations, crew reunions and military conventions.
The Orleck's service covered the Korean, Vietnam and Cold War periods. Known as the "Grey Ghost of the Vietnam Coast," the Orleck is the most decorated post-World War II ship ever built and was awarded 18 battle stars.
Justin Wealand, vice president of the Jacksonville Historic Naval Ship Association, recently gave First Coast Connect a tour of the ship. Climb aboard.