Today, an important piece from a historical rescue pulled into Norfolk. The lifeboat where Maersk Alabama Captain Phillips was held hostage
arrived at Nauticus, bullet holes and all, as a small crowd watched the delivery.
The moment Somali pirates hijacked the Maersk Alabama, the city of Norfolk was thrown into center stage. Not only was the cargo ship based out of the mermaid city, but the Navy ship the USS Bainbridge, which was sent to rescue Captain Richard Philipps, was also from Naval Station Norfolk.
John Peters, a retired sailor, said he saw the rescue coverage as it unfolded, and wanted to see firsthand where the rescue took place.
"Your mind goes back to how did it happen. What happened and how was it done. Just absolutely miraculous," said Peters.
Hank Lynch, the executive director of Nauticus, said the arrival of the lifeboat could not have come on a more timely day, as the country honors veterans who make the same sacrifices as Captain Phillips.
"He is what exemplifies what is great about America. Self sacrifice, giving himself up to save his crew. It's one of those great American stories," Lynch said.
The lifeboat will be the centerpiece for the modern piracy exhibit, which will open to the public November 21.
The moment Somali pirates hijacked the Maersk Alabama, the city of Norfolk was thrown into center stage. Not only was the cargo ship based out of the mermaid city, but the Navy ship the USS Bainbridge, which was sent to rescue Captain Richard Philipps, was also from Naval Station Norfolk.
John Peters, a retired sailor, said he saw the rescue coverage as it unfolded, and wanted to see firsthand where the rescue took place.
"Your mind goes back to how did it happen. What happened and how was it done. Just absolutely miraculous," said Peters.
Hank Lynch, the executive director of Nauticus, said the arrival of the lifeboat could not have come on a more timely day, as the country honors veterans who make the same sacrifices as Captain Phillips.
"He is what exemplifies what is great about America. Self sacrifice, giving himself up to save his crew. It's one of those great American stories," Lynch said.
The lifeboat will be the centerpiece for the modern piracy exhibit, which will open to the public November 21.
