A U.S. Navy Commanding Officer visits the William A. Irvin

Throughout the first week of July, it’s Navy Week in the Twin Ports. This Independence Day will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States Navy and the founding of the United States of America. One highlight of this week included a Commanding Officer visiting a beloved naval vessel in the Duluth harbor.

Captain Dale Gregory, Commanding Officer of the USS Ronald Reagan, stopped by the William A. Irvin to learn some local Duluth history.

“The Irvin is an amazing piece of American history. I was reading about it before I got here. I did not fully understand the condition that they’ve been able to maintain the ship in and the uniqueness of its guest quarters. That’s really an amazing ship,” Captain Gregory said. “We have over 70 sailors right now actively engaged in the community, taking part in activities all across, really to showcase what your Navy is doing for you.”

Captain Gregory added that the preservation work for the William A. Irvin is vital for future generations to learn naval history.

“We were talking as we were walking through. There’s a lot of history for the United States, whether it’s the steel industry, whether it’s the movement of the iron ore,” Captain Gregory said. “Now the taconite from here in Minnesota and Wisconsin all the way to Ohio and Pittsburgh. So I think it’s an important part of history to understand where we were and where we are going.”

The Navy Week will culminate with the 2025 Duluth Air and Aviation Expo featuring the Blue Angels. Captain Gregory says the Twin Ports have been incredibly welcoming to active military in the U.S. Navy. He can’t thank the community members in the Duluth area enough for their continued support.

“I’d be remiss to say you do have the F-18s here, the highlight of the air show, the Blue Angels. We’re really hoping that everybody gets out to see what your Navy is doing today for you. We just really want to say thank you for the support that the community has provided us.”

Also for other stories happening during Navy Week you can read more here.