
Midway Celebrates 75 Years
On March 20, 1945 the CVB-41 was christened “Midway” by Barbara Cox Ripley, and the building dock was flooded, floating the massive hull into Hampton Roads. A remarkable feature appearing as the Midway lay along the fitting out dock was the heaviest gun armament seen since the 8-inch gun mounts on the old Lexington and Saratoga.
On Sept. 10, just nine days after the surrender ceremony on the deck of the USS Missouri, the new USS Midway was commissioned into active service. Visitors marveled at the large scale of the new carrier, particularly the 924-foot long flight deck, able to operate an unheard of 120 combat aircraft. For the next ten years, the Midway and her two sisters would be the largest warships in the world.
Challenge Coin Give-a-way
To celebrate the USS Midway’s 75th birthday, we have created an exclusive challenge coin representing the core values of Midway’s 75 year odyssey. As an active duty ship from 1945 to 1992, Midway represented service, dedication, and an unwavering strength in the face of adversity. Today, as a ship museum, Midway represents a commitment to the preservation of history through inspiring, educating, and entertaining our communities.
Be one of the first 75 families that visit the USS Midway Museum on Sept. 10, 2020 and you will receive a exclusive commemorative challenge coin! If you are unable to visit us in person, you may enter to win a challenge coin on our social media channels. Details below!


Enter to Win a Coin
Unable to visit the ship on Sept. 10? We will be giving away a very limited amount of challenge coins through social media. You may enter via Facebook, Instagram, Twitter – or all platforms to increase your chances to win.
Click the posts below and follow all steps to be entered. Questions about the challenge coin give-a-way? Email us at social@midway.org
RECHRISTENING MIDWAY: WATCH ON FACEBOOK LIVE
In light of all the challenges we have faced over the last 75 years, and most recently as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are excited to “rechristen” the mighty Midway Magic in a special socially distanced ceremony aboard the USS Midway Museum on Sept. 10, 2020.
This event is not open to the public, but will be livestreamed on our Facebook page.

Help Us Navigate Dangerous Seas
We are doing all we can to honor and preserve the historic Midway as America’s living symbol of freedom as we continue to navigate through uncharted waters.
Your ship not only embodies the spirit San Diego’s naval history, but is a proud symbol of strength, peace and freedom for the nation. Your support to keep her strong during these challenging times is greatly appreciated.
LEARN MORE FROM OUR HISTORIAN

BUILDING THE MIDWAY: PART 1
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BUILDING THE MIDWAY: PART 2
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