Making a Difference
Preserving a Piece of History
Newport News Shipbuilding Telecommunications Technician Aaron Ward spends his weekends volunteering at the Nauticus Maritime Museum in Norfolk, Virginia. He helps to maintain the Iowa-class battleship USS Wisconsin. Awarded six battle stars during her time in the fleet, Wisconsin is one of the largest battleships ever built for the U.S. Navy. In 2009, she was permanently dedicated as a museum ship and, to keep her in good shape, volunteers perform a variety of tasks, from surface preparation for the missile launchers to changing light bulbs and painting. Wisconsin’s service during World War II, the Korean War and Operation Desert Storm, was a factor in Ward’s decision to volunteer. “I was visiting the museum and I noticed there was just something about that ship – the wood decks, enormous gun barrels and the machine oil
smell. That day, I made a choice to be a part of history.” Ward is one of several individuals from the Hampton Roads community who dedicate their weekends to keeping Wisconsin, or “Wisky,” afloat. Helping to maintain Wisconsin has enhanced his appreciation for naval history and shipbuilding. “I respect what our guys do on the waterfront even more because I’m able to see firsthand what their work brings to life.” Ward believes Wisconsin’s presence in the community makes a difference. “It pays homage to the sailors who served on her, it keeps you in touch with America’s history, and people are able to see that she is a living embodiment of our freedoms,” he said. “It’s an indescribable feeling knowing I help preserve a breathtaking piece of history.” I By Ashley Key Aaron Ward volunteers on weekends to help maintain USS Wisconsin, a ship museum located in Norfolk, Virginia. Photo by Chris Oxley