A Day of Honor & Celebration Aboard the Midway
On Saturday, October 11, 2025, the USS Midway Museum hosted a truly memorable day that combined two powerful tributes: Heroes Among Us: 80 Years After WWII and the 250th Birthday of the United States Navy. Together, these events honored the courage of the Greatest Generation while celebrating the Navy’s proud 250-year legacy.
Special One-Day Exhibit: Model Ships by Joe Frangiosa Jr.
As part of the celebration of the U.S. Navy’s 250th Birthday, the USS Midway Museum was honored to present a special one-day exhibit featuring handcrafted model ships from the Nautical History Gallery & Museum. Visitors had the opportunity to meet Joe Frangiosa Jr., the builder and founder of the Nautical History Gallery, and hear firsthand about his passion for naval history and shipbuilding. On display was a selection of his finely detailed models displaying Navy history in miniature.
Learn more about Joe’s work at www.nhgallery.org.
Heroes Among Us: 80 Years After WWII
Heroes Among Us offered a rare and unforgettable opportunity to meet and interact with living World War II veterans — the courageous men and women of the Greatest Generation who answered the call of duty eight decades ago.
Guests had the chance to:
- Meet WWII veterans in person
- Capture a photo and create lasting memories
- Hear stories of bravery, sacrifice, and resilience
This was a wonderful tribute to service and a chance to say thank you to those who fought for freedom around the world.
U.S. Navy’s 250th Birthday Celebration
Visitors, WWII veterans, Midway Volunteers and staff, gathered in honor of the 250th Birthday of the United States Navy aboard the Midway - a milestone celebration honoring 250 years of courage, service and tradition in the U.S. Navy. Together, everyone enjoyed a slice of Navy birthday cake, captured photos with a special birthday-themed photo op, and said hello to Midway’s lovable mascot, Middie.
