In April 2009 the world at large watched in frustration when they discovered that the Maersk Alabama cargo ship that was near the coast of Africa had been hijacked by Somali pirates.  This hijacking made news around the world as people anxiously awaited to see what would become of hostage Capt. Richard Phillips.

Mixed emotions ran rampant as people all over the United States wondered aloud how it was possible for pirates to actually be active during this modern day and age.  An outcry for rescue was immediately heard around the world.

Days after this hijacking a group of Navy SEALs carried out a heroic and well executed rescue mission wherein three pirates lost their lives during the rescue.  However, Capt. Richard Phillips was safely recovered during a raid aboard the USS Bainbridge.  This rescue was watched around the world and people were in awe of the heroics of the Navy SEALs who risked their life to save Capt. Richard Phillips.

The lifeboat involved in this rescue became an immediate symbol of hope and rescue.   This lifeboat will now go on permanent display at the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum in Fort Pierce, where museum curator Ruth McSween is more than pleased to welcome this “modern artifact” which is expected to bring in record numbers of visitors to the museum.

On August the 14th at 10 a.m., the lifeboat used in the rescue operation will go on display and will remain on display at the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum.  This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of not only the Navy SEALs, but also of those heroes who came before them.