Ode for the SS United States

 By Robert Hudson Westover, Chairman Emeritus of the SS United States Foundation

I am very saddened to report that the SS United States is now in Mobile, AL being prepared to be sunk in the Gulf of America. It’s hard to believe on so many levels. 

 

In 1997, the all volunteer effort I started to save her from this very fate changed my life. 

 

My work to get her on the National Register of Historic Places resulted in me being recognized by President Clinton, Peter Jennings of ABC World Tonight and even Queen Elizabeth II. 

 

In fact, legendary Journalist Walter Cronkite assisted in my efforts serving as an honorary chair along with President Clinton in two organizations that spun off from my SS United States Foundation. 

 

A well selling book, a nationally broadcast documentary, celebrity endorsements and billion plus worldwide media impressions did not save this symbol of our nation. 

 

Unfortunately, what could have been a story of overcoming all odds, of the collective determination to save arguably the greatest ship ever produced by America—that still holds the Atlantic crossing speed record—will be a tragic tale of lack of will, mismanagement and misfortune. 

 

The great United States, to be sunk in the Gulf of America. 

 

What else can I say? 

 

https://youtu.be/4h1pAsFeJi8?feature=shared