Battleship Texas takes to the water again For the first time in 2 1/2 years, the Battleship Texas returned to the water Tuesday (2/5/2024) morning. With a small crowd gathered across the Galveston ship channel, the last of the dreadnaught battle shows, the USS Texas moved from a dry dock to a berth nearby to continue the work to return her to glory. Sometimes, a soupy fog made it difficult to see the 114-year-old battleship take to the water again. Among those watching the spectacle - that started at 3 AM Tuesday - was Robert Lunsford, a longtime Texas volunteer. He was joined by his wife of 15 years, Laura, who stayed in a nearby hotel room. The Battleship Texas holds a special place in Lunsford’s heart. His father served aboard the USS Houston, a troop carrier that saw action in both World Wars. After getting his then-girlfriend to volunteer, it was a weekly event that strengthened their bond. Lunsford proposed to his bride on the bridge of the Texas, and its captain married the couple soon after. For the long-time volunteer, seeing Texas in the water again showed grit and determination by the Battleship Texas Foundation. The warship arrived to the Port of Galveston for its $75 million restoration in a dry dock at Gulf Copper on August 31, 2023. She was commissioned on March 12th, 1914, the Battleship Texas is the only surviving dreadnought to have served in both World War I and World II. She was then decommissioned on April 21st, 1948. VP of Development with the Battleship Texas Foundation, Matthew Pham called the events happening “monumental.” The group is working on the details to make Pier 19 in Galveston its new home. Galveston native Tilman Fertitta, who acquired the pier’s leasing rights when he purchased the Harbor House Inn, spearheaded a proposal that would allow Texas to call Galveston home.

Posted by i45NOW Joey at 2024-03-05 20:39:55 UTC