SS United States deployment moved up to Veterans Day

OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. (WWSB) - Due to forecast heavy winds and unsafe weather conditions on Nov. 12, Okaloosa County is moving up the deployment of the SS United States as the world’s largest artificial reef to Nov. 11, with operations beginning at 2 p.m. The sendoff ceremony scheduled for Nov. 11 at 1:30 p.m. has been canceled.

“Safety is always a top priority in Okaloosa County,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Trey Goodwin. “There is simply no reason to take an unnecessary risk when adjusting the schedule will allow us to carry out this historic deployment safely and smoothly.”

“While the weather may have changed our plans, it has given this historic occasion an especially meaningful date. On Veterans Day, as we honor the men and women who served our nation, we will also honor the legacy of the SS United States, a magnificent ship that proudly bears the name of the country they so bravely defended.”

A live viewing party will be held at AJ’s Seafood and Oyster Bar in Destin beginning at noon on Nov. 11, where a live feed from the deployment site will be viewable on the large outdoor screen. The live viewing link will be shared on thessus.com before deployment.

Okaloosa County is working with safety and security partners for a safe and efficient deployment. Bystanders on the water are expected to follow guidance from safety boats at the deployment site.

For a comprehensive look into the ship’s history, go to: https://www.ssusc.org/.

A 3D model of the ship is available at: https://www.destinfwb.com/explore/eco-tourism/artificial-reefs/3d-models/.

Read a summary of the completed remediation of the ship at https://www.destinfwb.com/explore/eco-tourism/ssus/ssus-remediation-updates/

The SS United States artificial reef project was fully funded by tourism revenue and multiple partner contributions.