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Jul 22, 2020

Sailors assigned to USS Halsey (DDG 97) participate in a command swim call. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialists 3rd Class Bradley J. Gee/Released. Navy.Mil

We thought we might share a little information about the Naval tradition, “steel beach picnic” or “steel beach party”. ⁣ ⁣

A steel beach picnic is just as it sounds, a picnic topside of the submarine. The cook will bring out a grill and cook up some burgers and hot dogs and the crew will eat on top of the submarine and relax in the sun. For the most part, while out to sea, the Navy maintains a no alcohol policy. However, when a ship or submarine has been out for over 45 days, the captain can request a ‘beer day’, which can be held on the same day as a steel beach picnic. ⁣ ⁣ A swim call may also be allowed. During a swim call, submariners enjoy fresh air, sun, and a dip in the open ocean.⁣

The Jordan family of four – husband and wife Billy and Linda, and sons Jack and Callum – received a free tour of the USS Bowfin by Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum executive director Chuck Merkel. They also received a gift certificate to the museum gift shop and a complimentary lunch.

“Welcoming our 11 millionth visitor marks an incredible milestone for the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, and we are grateful for all of our visitors since opening to the public over 40 years ago,” said Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum executive director Chuck Merkel. “Thanks to our dedicated museum staff, this achievement underscores the lasting significance of preserving the legacy of the submariners who served aboard the USS Bowfin during World War II. It is a privilege to share this historic vessel and its stories with people from around the world.”

Named after an aggressive freshwater predator native to North America, the USS Bowfin was launched on December 7, 1942, and nicknamed the ‘Pearl Harbor Avenger.’ Over the course of nine successful war patrols in the Pacific during World War II, the Bowfin lived up to both her namesake and her nickname. Donated to the Pacific Fleet Submarine Memorial Association in 1979, the submarine was opened to the public in April 1981 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986.

Located at 11 Arizona Memorial Drive at Pearl Harbor, the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum and USS Bowfin submarine are open daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

For more information, call (808) 423-1341 or plan your visit here.

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