What a great event at the St Louis Science Center tonight! Jon Brown and I had the honor photographing “An Evening of Aloha with the Mighty Mo”.  An inspirational evening celebrating the 65th anniversary year of the end of WWII which took place on the battleship USS Missouri – the Mighty MO (BB-63)! And the impending launch of the newest nuclear submarine, the USS Missouri (SSN-780).  I was very moved by the presentation of history from Mr. Michael Carr, General McNabb, Rr Adm Metcalf, and Mr Doug King.

Lesly Bickel from the Governor’s office displayed pieces from the USS Missouri Silver Collection; which now resides at Missouri State  Governor’s Mansion

But one of the most moving pieces for me tonight, was a painting by St. Louis  artisan Melinda Lutke.  It was an artists rendition of the Might MO during battle.  The colors told such an amazing story.  I felt the pride and glory the ship stood for, and the valor she endured.  It  made me weep.

When the USS Missouri went into dry dock for repairs and reconditioning,  many of the bolts or rivets had to be removed and replaced, as well much of the teak deck.  As we left tonight each person was given a small purple bag – in it, a piece of history – a rivet from the Might Mo.

Thank you to the Battleship Missouri Memorial,  General McNabb,  Rear Adm. Metcalf, and Doug King and everyone at the SLSC for allowing us this honor tonight.

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