Governor Charlie Crist has named Tuesday, July 27, as American Victory Recognition Day. In celebration, the American Victory Ship Museum will offer half price admission on Saturday, July 31 for tours of the ship berthed at the Port of Tampa.
Merchant Marine ships were armed during wartime to defend the crew and cargo. Above, the American Victory’s forward cannon, now demilitarized, keeps a watchful eye on the decidedly friendly cruise ship, the Carnival Legend, at the Port of Tampa.
Tours are self-guided leaving visitors free to roam all outside decks, along with the crew and officers quarters, crew mess, hospital and other areas of the ship.
The SS American Victory remains in operational state, and as such, the engine room is normally not open to the public. This glimpse is courtesy of a considerate museum volunteer.
American Victory Day
