Perch Base USSVI Base Commander and Life Member Howard Doyle attended the USS Vallejo (SSBN-658) Memorial dedication on October 24, 25 and 26, 2019.
The Mare Island Historic Park Foundation hosted the celebration to commemorate the sail of the Mariano G. Vallejo.
The Vallejo was one of the "41 FOR FREEDOM" that protected us during the Cold War. The goal of the 41 for Freedom was to create a credible, survivable sea-based deterrent to the possibility of nuclear war as quickly as possible. The Mare Island Naval Ship Yard (MINSY) built 11 of the 41 boats, including the Mariano G. Vallejo (SSBN 658). She was a SHOWBOAT! The MGV was celebrated by the City of Vallejo from the lay down of her keel in July 1964 through her launch in October 1965. The Chamber of Commerce donated money for an especially nice silver service for the wardroom, many enhancements were incorporated into her construction, and the story told by Submarine Squadron Commanders is that if a dignitary requested a submarine tour, and the Vallejo was in port, she was the automatic choice.
Howard qualified on the Vallejo in 1973, so both Howard and the Vallejo were "returning to their roots" for this event.

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