As a Balao-class attack sub, USS Lionfish represented the backbone of the American submarine force during World War II. Testament to her sound engineering, Lionfish has endured for nearly six decades-a span that includes face-to-face slugging matches with the Japanese, NATO exercises during the Korean War, and Naval Reserve training missions in Providence, RI.

Since her $1.7 million 1998-9 dry-docking, Lionfish is fortunate to have been adopted by several individuals who are committed to sailing her into the 21st century. For many years, the late Captain Joseph Beard (at left), whose submarine division trained on board Lionfish in Providence, led this group, fueling their enthusiasm with his inspiring philanthropy.

Because of their efforts, Lionfish survives today as a monument to American submarines who remain on eternal patrol, a magnificent educational artifact that helps us to understand how the historical and technological achievements of the past are still relevant.

If you are interested in joining the fight to preserve Lionfish and the heritage of American submariners, please contact the museum at (508) 678-1100.

Capt. J. Beard

NOT YOUR AVERAGE JOE: Battleship Cove regrets to report the passing of Captain Joseph Beard, a longtime director and loyal supporter of USS Lionfish. As Commanding Officer of Naval Reserve Submarine Division I-41, Captain Joseph Beard exemplified leadership: His submarine division trained on board Lionfish. Fortunately for Battleship Cove, when Beard's term as CO expired, his commitment to the ship and the museum that preserves her did not. Beard underscored this fact in 2002, 2003 and 2004 with $5,000 donations to Lionfish.

Beard, who utilized the Lionfish as a reserve training vessel in Providence, Rhode Island, has given a lot of his own personal fortune to restore and preserve the vessel. In 2001 Beard spearheaded the restoration of the submarine's five-inch wet mount, which was discovered by a Cove volunteer outside a Norwich, Connecticut, VFW and dedicated during the Lionfish reunion in September 2002.

Click here to learn how you can support the Lionfish.

SUBMARINES & NAVAL DISASTERS: Swaddled in thick down jackets and wool-knit caps, a handful of visitors climbed up Big Mamie's brow like an arctic expedition team. But these were no ordinary tourists: Battleship Cove was once again in the national spotlight, hosting The History Channel for a pair of episodes on the network's popular "This Week in History," one on submarines and one on naval disasters. While the former naturally includes the USS Lionfish, the latter features Elco-class PT boat 617 in telling the story of the loss of John F. Kennedy's PT 109.

Click here for more information on "This Week in History."