An estimated 40 USS Lewis and Clark SSBN sailors, whose crew was adopted by Port Orchard in 1971, will return to Kitsap County for a 50 year reunion July 14th. The ballistic missile submarine was commissioned in 1965 and was overhauled at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard from April 1971 – June 1972. During its stay, Port Orchard adopted crew members and the City donated the property between Dekalb and Dwight streets, and Clayton’s shipmates and wives turned it into what is known at Clayton Park.
The park, which overlooks Sinclair Inlet and PSNS, is named for Michael “Doc” Clayton, a corpsman who was killed in a car accident while the submarine was in overhaul.
The USS Lewis and Clark sailors and honored guests attending this year’s reunion have a number of festivities planned including a picnic lunch at the Michael Clayton Playground.
“Port Orchard is proud to once again welcome the crew members of the USS Lewis and Clark for this important and historic reunion. We’re proud of our shared maritime and naval history that has shaped our city and I believe Port Orchard is better for the contributions of the Lewis and Clark.” said Port Orchard Mayor Rob Putaansuu.
Original source can be found here.
