Although a somber occasion, the decommissioning proceedings are steeped in naval heritage and pageantry. Once the decommissioning order is read, the ship’s wheel is secured and the running lights are extinguished. Next, ship personnel strike eight bells signifying the end of the watch and then lower the vessel’s flags. In keeping with tradition, the commissioning pennant will be presented to the commanding officer and the U.S. flag to the crew member with the most years of service on Albatross IV. The commanding officer will then relinquish command of the ship.
WHAT: Decommissioning ceremony of federal research ship
WHERE: NOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center
166 Water Street
Woods Hole, Mass.
WHEN: Thur., Nov. 20, 10:00 a.m.
WHO: William J. Brennan, Ph.D., acting under secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and acting NOAA administrator
Rear Admiral Jonathan W. Bailey, director, NOAA Corps and NOAA Office
of Marine and Aviation Operations
Dr. Nancy Thompson, science & research director, NOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center
Scientists and crew who have spent up to 39 years aboard the vessel—and who have many stories to tell—will also attend the decommissioning ceremony.
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