'Big John' Coming to Philadelphia
Saturday, March 22, 2008
source www.delawareonline.com
March 22.....Doomed by the need for costly oil and a costlier overhaul, the last conventionally powered aircraft carrier built in America will remain in Philadelphia in a "state of preservation," pending completion of the nuclear-powered USS Gerald Ford, CV-77.
Navy officials plan to keep the ship tied up at Pier 4 at the Navy Yard near the Philadelphia Cruise Ship Terminal as a hedge against a national emergency, while deciding on its longer-term duty as a museum or artificial reef.
Thousands were expected to turn out for a glimpse of the big ship, christened in 1967 by Caroline Kennedy, daughter of the country's 35th president.
Navy spokesman Chris Hatch said the Kennedy was expected to enter the bay at about 9 p.m. Friday and was due to tie up in Philadelphia at 2 p.m., but was unable to provide additional details.