Members of the U.S. Navy recruiters

Juanje Davis and Bill Litzler

The USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation (USSCLF) hosted military personnel, civilians, donors, and friends at the US Navy Birthday Ball benefitting the USSCLF. The invitation-only event enjoyed by more than 200 guests took place from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Union Club of Cleveland in celebration of the 247th birthday of the United States Navy.
Directed by the Chief of Naval Operations, and the Senior Naval Officer of the United States Navy, the central theme for this year’s Navy birthday is “on watch-24/7 for 247 years,”
Proceeds from the celebration will benefit the USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation’s mission and vision to support positive civil-military

CAPT. Ben Baran, U. S. Navy Reserve

relations by creating and maintaining a strong, meaningful, and direct bond between citizens of northeast Ohio and the crew of the future USS Cleveland (LCS31) to be commissioned in the Fall of 2024.
From everyday small feats to undeniably heroic efforts, the accomplishments and achievements of America’s Navy are vast and significant. Since its birth on October 13, 1775, the Navy has been involved in every major war and countless battles, ensuring and reinforcing security, democracy, and prosperity for the American people, and the international community.
This time-honored tradition celebrates those who have served, are serving today, and to the

Craig Bashein, Bill Brancovsky and Former
Undersecretary of the U.S. Navy Thomas Modly

hundreds of young Americans who will raise their right hands, swear to support and defend the Constitution, and receive orders to serve,”said Mike Dovilla, the Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer. “Through USSCLF, thewarship, which is anticipated to operate in Naval service for 25 years, will be a platform for economic development, educational programming, community building, and support for service members,veterans, and families.”
ABOUT THE USS CLEVELAND LEGACY FOUNDATION
Established in 2019, the USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation’s threefold mission is:
• To send USS Cleveland to the Fleet with the greatest start possible;
• To support the ship and crew throughout her service life; and
• To welcome her home to Cleveland at the completion of her Naval service.