The commissioning of USS Stockdale on April 18, 2009 at Naval Base Ventura County, California, marked her entry into the United States Navy's fleet and provides an opportunity to show appreciation to the men and women of the Navy who stand in harm's way to preserve the American way of life.

USS Stockdale
Adoption Hotline
805.879.1561

Scenes From the Commissioning Ceremony: April 18, 2009 - Naval Base Ventura County

A Special Comissioning: Honoring Admiral James Stockdale

USS Stockdale is already an historical vessel: She embodies the spirit, valor, leadership, strength, and patriotism of Admiral Stockdale. The Santa Barbara Navy League is committed to supporting her comissioning; by sharing in this event, you join the crew, the ship, and all who support this endeavor to become a part of history.

Schedule of Activities**

• Tuesday

Navy Activities

• Wednesday

Navy Activities

• Thursday, April 16

2:00 - 3:30 PM: Media Tours (by invitation only)

Evening: CO Reception for Commissioning Committees (by invitation only)

• Friday, April 17

Lunch: Sponsor’s luncheon for Mrs. Stockdale Aboard Ship (by invitation only)

5:00 - 8:00 PM: Softball game under the lights in Santa Barbara: USS Stockdale vs.
  SB Fire Department. Open to the Public at Dwight Murphy Softball Field, across from
  the Santa Barbara Zoo

Evening: Commanding Officer’s Reception & Adoption Announcement & Gifts (by invitation only)

• Saturday, April 18

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Platform Continental Breakfast (by invitation only)

  11 AM- 12:30 PM: Commissioning Ceremony

  12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Post Commissioning Reception

  1:30 PM - 3:30 PM: BBQ for POWs, POW families, Medal of Honor recipients,
   Legion of Valor, Red River Rats (by invitation only)

**Schedule subject to change

Notice to Commissioning Event Attendees

Authorized personal possessions visitors may introduce to the USS STOCKDALE Commissioning Ceremony venue are limited to purses, camera bags, and diaper bags.

Prohibited items include backpacks, ice chests, lawn chairs, and other items.Introduction of firearms, explosives, knives, and other weapons to the installation are strictly prohibited.

All visitors and their property are subject to search and seizure. Command Authorized Vehicle Inspections will be conducted at each installation entry control point and all visitors and their possessions will be screened using metal detectors at the venue entry control points.