Orleck Battles For Her Life
 

The USS Orleck (DD886) may be fighting her greatest battle.  In fact, it may be a fight for her life as she is without a homeport.

One of the last Gearing class destroyers afloat, the city of Orange, Texas has apparently reversed its position and no longer wants the ship berthed there as part of the Southeast Texas War Memorial and Heritage Foundation museum.

In a response to an October 15, 2006 inquiry, STWMHF Vice President Sherwood Buckalew stated:

"The USS ORLECK DD 886 an historical WW II Gearing Class Destroyer, is Forced to look for a new berth. The Southeast Texas War Memorial and Heritage Foundation and the Ship have been FORCED-Closed by the City Management of Orange, Texas. The City, Illegally deeded away the south end of 4th Street, to remove access to the ship. The Ship was refused any location under the control of the City and Port of Orange. We were forced to turn away Five ships reunions and over 1000 visitors to Orange. The message is clear, the City of Orange must not like Navy Reunions. Our Haunted Ship and Ghost Tour will also be canceled. This event attracted visitors from Lafayette, La. to Houston, Texas, in 2004. The City must not want these visitors as well... The City management is trying to force the foundation to default our tow loan so they can have the ship DESTROYED in front of our Veterans. "The City is considering the value of the metal..." City Manager Shawn Oubre said. He also stated to Channel 12 News " The Orleck is not welcome in Orange" We continue to stand against those who would destroy our Heritage of Freedom and the History of this community."

One would expect the city fathers to assist in the relocation of the vessel affording it an opportunity the benefit the public thus allowing the foundation to be a good community (and fiscal) citizen.

Perhaps a veteran or veteran's group "thinking outside the box" may offer up possibilities for a solution.  Is that you?

You may contact the Foundation directly by clicking here.