The Gun Counter

(S)crew scheduling assigned me a trip up through Buffalo, NY with a 30 hour layover. Luckily it was only a few blocks away from the museum. I went through pretty quick because I was near their closing time, but was able to walk through both buildings and all three ships. I would highly recommend visiting if you have a chance, however the museum is closed during winter months. The three ships are the U.S.S. Little Rock, The Sullivans, and the Croaker.

Some of the highlights include: a P-39 that was given to the Soviets, found underwater in the arctic, and restored. The TALOS missile system on the back of the Little Rock was really impressive, with the loading doors and system capable of holding 40-50 missiles including nuclear warheads. A Colt 1911 with a serial number indicating manufacture in 1918. A Japanese knee mortar. One of the most interesting historical artifacts was the navigator's map from U-66, showing their wartime travel and kills. The U-66 was sunk by ramming by the U.S.S. Buckley, and it's navigator rescued by the Buckley.

Let me know if the link doesn't work.

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_ ... 8&refid=52

My older son and I got to do a sleepover on the Little Rock in about 2006 or so. They had us dads draw up a watch bill and stand watches during the night, owing to the presence of trip hazards and "we're not really sure whether this circuit is live or not" stuff. Fed us supper and breakfast, and we got to watch a movie aboard. Good time.

Thanks !! Will install that on my bucket list !

OVERNIGHT STAYS – ENCAMPMENTS

Spring encampment season starts the first weekend in April through the second weekend in June. The Fall season starts mid September through the weekend before Thanksgiving. Arrival at the Naval Park for encampments should be between 3:30 and 4:30 PM, to ensure adequate time for check-in, payment of program fees and escort onboard and berthing assignments. Campers sleep onboard the USS Little Rock with a capacity of 250.

Reservations are taken by telephone only, please call: 716-847-1773, ext. 10. Cost is $45.00 per person regardless of age. The $45.00 buys dinner, breakfast, the overnight, a tour of the Park and one ride on our motion simulator. Parking is located on Erie Boulevard at the north end of Marine Drive (we share the lot with the Miss Buffalo cruise boat customers).

This sounds like a really good deal. I wonder if there is a minimum group size.

LINK