Fall 2023 Coast to Coast Magazine Digital Edition

Pershing and the M48A1 Patton that were used in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and Desert Storm. Tanks are just a few of many outdoor attractions situated on park grounds. Calamity Jane is the name of a big bad-looking fighter jet that stands out on the property’s green grass. And there is an eye-popping orange, black and white Coast Guard plane that scores as one of the more colorful aircraft stationed outdoors. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is a multi-purpose recreational area with open greenspace and convenient pluses like free pet kennels, a complimentary bike repair station, and a pier for anglers with Alabama fishing licenses. If you want to stay all day, visit the picnic area near the battleship. It is furnished with small grills, sheltered tables, and benches. Park administrators joined ranks with the National Estuary Program to construct a marsh boardwalk and gazebo that offer sweet views of Mobile Bay. It is officially Stop #29 on the Alabama Coastal Birding trail, so you might see a nesting osprey or a honking Canada goose. The sheer power of American patriotism is alive and well in Mobile — at USS Alabama Memorial Park.

The bronze Recruit Statue represents recruits from all military branches who have taken the enlistment oath at the onset of their military service.

An imposing sculpture named The Recruit was unveiled in July 2016. The bronze memorial is installed close to the sloped entryway of USS Alabama Battleship. This unique tribute acknowledges newcomers from all military branches who have taken the enlistment oath at the start of their service. According to the text engraved on a memorial stationed near the USS Drum Submarine, the person assigned as the sub’s lookout was called “the eyes of the submarine.” Recognized for unwavering valor and keen observational skills, the lookout was strategically positioned high above the deck whenever the submarine surfaced above water. Likewise, when the vessel dipped underwater, the lookout served as “the ears” of the sub by monitoring sonar gear. The lookout’s keen eyesight and constant readiness were vital to the success and survival of the boat and crew. There is no question that military service at every level is greatly appreciated at Mobile’s park. A good example is the special Service Dog War Memorial designed to salute loyal canines that worked alongside human members of the U.S. Armed Forces. As you might expect, the entrance sign for USS Alabama Memorial Park includes a full- scale camouflaged airplane. Park grounds also contain several military tanks such as the M26

For more information: http://www.ussalabama.com

Park grounds include tanks from WWII, Korea, Vietnam and Desert Storm.

USS ALABAMA MEMORIAL PARK

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