800 USS Midway Museum Volunteers: What Drives Them to Give Back?

The USS Midway Museum: A Hub of Volunteerism and History

As Jeff Severly from CBS visits the USS Midway Museum, he meets with various individuals who have dedicated their time to preserving the history of this iconic ship. One such individual is Al Hansen, a 96-year-old veteran who joined the Navy at the age of 16. His mother signed a piece of paper that said he was 17, as he wanted to support his family and fight in World War II. Al has volunteered on the Midway with his wife Carol for an impressive number of hours – 9,900 – and is one of 100 people who have contributed their time to this historic ship.

Al's story is a testament to the dedication and sacrifice that many veterans have made during their service. Despite having served in World War II, Al has continued to volunteer on the Midway long after his military days were over. His experience on the plane, with the gun shooting at the enemy, is a far cry from the smiling faces of volunteers that visitors meet today. However, Al's passion for preserving history and sharing it with others is evident in every aspect of his work.

The USS Midway Museum has a dedicated team of volunteers who have committed themselves to maintaining and archiving Naval History. Phil Egan, a former Navy Commander, now oversees the ship's library and has volunteered over 21,000 hours. This dedication is truly remarkable, especially considering that Angie Ginn, another volunteer, has donated over 34,000 hours to the museum. If these volunteers were paid twenty dollars an hour for their time, it would amount to a staggering six hundred and eighty thousand dollar labor donation.

Angie's story is particularly fascinating as she never served in the military but has dedicated herself to preserving Naval History through her volunteering work. Her passion for the subject matter is evident in every aspect of her involvement with the museum. Angie's contribution to replacing the ship's light bulbs is an astonishing 100,000 – a testament to her unwavering commitment.

The USS Midway Museum is always looking for new volunteers from all walks of life to join their team. The museum has successfully become a hub of volunteerism, where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to preserve history and share it with others. According to TripAdvisor, the number one thing to do in San Diego is visit the USS Midway Museum – a testament to its popularity and reputation.

As Jeff Severly concludes his visit, he notes that meeting these volunteers has left him with an indelible impression. The USS Midway Museum's commitment to preserving history and sharing it with others is truly remarkable. For those interested in joining their team, the museum offers resources and information on how to get involved. One of the first steps is watching a little movie that explains why the ship is so important – a crucial part of understanding the significance of this historic vessel.

The USS Midway Museum has become more than just an attraction; it has evolved into a community where people from all walks of life come together to preserve history and share their passion with others. The museum's commitment to volunteerism and its willingness to welcome new members have made it an essential part of San Diego's cultural landscape.

The USS Midway Museum is truly a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and community spirit. As Jeff Severly leaves the ship, he carries with him a deeper appreciation for the individuals who make this museum tick – the volunteers who give their time, energy, and passion to preserving history.