Celebrating the 75th anniversary of PT-305's Commissioning

Built in New Orleans by Higgins Industries, the patrol-torpedo boat PT-305 was a critical asset for the US Navy during World War II, serving in European waters from 1944 to the end of the war. Following her wartime service, PT-305 served as a New York tour boat, a fishing charter, and an oyster boat, undergoing modifications along the way: new, less-costly engines; several new paint jobs; and a dramatic reduction in length. 

When she was acquired by The National WWII Museum, PT-305 was in dry dock in Galveston, Texas, and in serious disrepair. In April 2007, accompanied by Museum curators, PT-305 found her way back to New Orleans, where Museum became her home on land until she could be restored by a dedicated volunteer crew to her former glory. 

On March 25, 2017, a dedication ceremony returned PT-305 to her home waters of Lake Pontchartrain. Operating for rides and deck tours out of a custom-built boathouse at Lakeshore Landing, she has returned to service as a vehicle of education for current and future generations to learn about Home Front industry, PT-305's wartime service, and the service of the brave young men who served aboard her. 

On December 8, 2018 PT-305 will celebrate the 75th anniversary of her commissioning. PT-305 staff and volunteers are commemorating this special occasion with a special anniversary party at her boat house.

Event Details:

• 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. | Special commemorative rides
• 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Open house with dockside viewing of the boat, anniversary cake, beverages, and gift certificate specials
• 2:00 p.m. | Special remarks
  

Provided by PT-305 Excursions LLC