ASSOCIATION
|
The symbol was born in battle, during the War of 1812, when the British were trying to
regain control of the colonies. Four British Men-O'-War, under full sail, were engaged on
Lake Champlain by a smaller American fleet. The American flagship on that day was the Saratoga, under the command of 28 year old Commodore Thomas MacDonough. A British cannonball tore through the deck, smashing a coop and releasing a young seaman's gamecock. The enraged bird flew to the rail of the ship, and as if expressing his outrage, crowed lustily and defiantly. Taking this as a sign of good luck, the Americans fought the British with new-found courage and won the battle. For 180 years, the fighting cock has been the symbol of Vigilance, Strength and Courage. Though the days of the great fighting sailing ships are gone, the spirit of the fighting cock lived on for 38 glorious years aboard the United States Ship Saratoga.
|
|
All Shipmates who served aboard the U.S.S. Saratoga (CV-3), (CVA-60), (CV-60) including all Squadrons having operated with the U.S.S. Saratoga are eligible to become members of the Association. Association members receive a Saratoga Directory, which includes: the Association by-laws, information about past Reunions, History of the Saratoga, and a members directory.
|
Indianapolis Marriott East ($99 per night) 1-317-352-1231 |
The mirror along with the Forrestal's mirror is now in place at the CPO club, NavSta Mayport. (which by the way is now listed as national landmark) All the names of the shipmates who perished while serving aboard Saratoga is laser engraved on the mirror. The art work and design layout is by Diane Senter. The money for this endeavor was raised by shipmate Tom Laquiere, who solicited donations from CVA/CV-60 shipmates. |
