USS Hornet Museum Presents a Military Tribute, “Heroes of the Pacific” May 16, 2010

ALAMEDA – The USS Hornet Museum presents a special military tribute, “Heroes of the Pacific.” This exclusive, one-time event will be held aboard the USS Hornet Museum on Sunday, May 16th starting at 3:30 pm. “Heroes of the Pacific,” featuring HBO’s acclaimed series “The Pacific,” will be host to a screening of the miniseries premiere episode as well as the miniseries finale.

In addition to the screenings, “Heroes of the Pacific” participants include retired Marine, Chuck Tatum, an Iwo Jima survivor and Stockton resident, who wrote “Red Blood, Black Sand,” one of several books “The Pacific” is based in part on; Andy Popenoe, president of the Jimmy Doolittle Air and Space Museum and retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant; and World War II veterans. Other activities include ship tours, giveaways, and a raffle. The event is free; however, all donations received will benefit the USS Hornet and the museum’s upcoming World War II Doolittle Raid Exhibit.

“Hornet contributed significantly to victory in the Pacific. This is going to be our largest military event of the year to honor the sacrifices veterans have made to our country and our way of giving thanks to the military, who have meant so much to the San Francisco Bay Area community,” said Randall Ramian, the CEO of the USS Hornet Museum.

Veterans, active personnel, and military leadership from around the Bay Area will be invited to attend. Limited seating is available to the general public. In addition, organizations such as Marines Memorial Club, Navy Leagues, the Coast Guard, former crewmembers, Hornet members as well as other groups are also invited to attend. An RSVP by April 30th is required to pacific@uss-hornet.org.

“The Pacific” is produced by actor Tom Hanks, director Steven Spielberg, and Gary Goetzman, the creators of HBO’s Emmy-award winning series, “Band of Brothers.” This 10-part miniseries follows three U.S. Marines, each on their own journey of survival through the Pacific Theater waged against Japanese Forces on the Pacific islands during the desperate days of World War II.

About the USS Hornet Museum
The USS Hornet Museum is a non-profit 501c(3) organization with the goal of inspiring people of all ages to experience naval history, science, and space technology. The aircraft carrier is docked permanently at the former Naval Air Station in Alameda and is open to the public daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The ship is berthed at 707 W. Hornet Ave, Pier 3, in Alameda, CA. Ample free parking. The website is at www.uss-hornet.org.