Two new images surfaced on the NavSource.org pages for Cavalla (SS-244) and Tautog (SSN-639) today. Both Cavalla and the sail of Tautog are on display at Seawolf Park in Galveston. The place is near and dear to my heart since I've been visiting since the early 1970's.
The first image was taken by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Chris Hoffpauir and clearly shows the powerful of Ike's storm surge. Both Cavalla and the destroyer escort USS Stewart were lifted from their beds and partially refloated. Cavalla is now sitting much higher than usual as evidenced by the visible burial line along her saddle tanks and stern. Stewart is also much more exposed and listing.
Before the storm the sail of Tautog was mounted perpendicularly to Cavalla's bow. It has been twisted almost 90 degrees off her stand and now lies on her side.
This second shot is from chron.com and shows a bow view of the ships. You can really see the list imparted to both ships by the storm surge.
Obviously it's going to take some serious effort and funds to return the park to pre-storm conditions. If you would like to contribute to the restoration project send your pledge to:
2504 Church St.
Galveston, TX 77550
Make your check out to Cavalla Historical Foundation. Donations are tax deductible. The Cavalla Historical Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization: EIN: 76-0617618. I am unaware of any online pledge interface.
When I was a boy I wrote a short story about the battleship USS Texas being blown from its moorings at San Jacinto State Park out to an uncharted island in Gulf of Mexico by a sudden hurricane. As an adult I've often chuckled at what I've considered the height of my youthful fantasy life. Looking at Seawolf Park now, I'm filled with awe at the power of great storms. And I have a little more respect for hurricanes as plot devices.
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