Honor Our Veterans with a Fort-to-Fort Cruise of Boston Harbor

The Boston Harbor Islands, by virtue of their strategic location, bear a military legacy that dates back to the Revolutionary War. Personal sacrifice, in defense of our national interests, is an honored tradition that continues over generations, with our most poignant memories often limited to our personal experiences and those passed on by our parents. The reality, however, is that there is a centuries long pattern of sacrifice that must never be forgotten. To quote George Santayana, in his Reason in Common Sense, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." So, to honor those who have served, and to remind us of the Boston Harbor Islands’ military legacy, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation, Division of State Parks and Recreation, has arranged a unique Veterans Day Fort-to-Fort cruise.

The cruise, highlighting the military history of Boston Harbor, will be conducted on November 11, 2009 aboard the UMass MV Columbia Point, departing from Boston’s Courthouse Dock at the Moakley Federal Courthouse. The cruise will include stops to tour Fort Warren on Georges Island and Fort Standish on Lovells Island.

Veterans will sail for free, on a space-available basis. Family members and the general public can participate for $10.00 per person, space permitting. Veterans will be given priority and all proceeds will benefit a local veterans charity. Reservations are required and can be made on-line at: https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/87454
The event flyer can be found at: http://www.bostonislands.org/VeteransDay_Flier_2009.pdf
For additional information, including boarding time, cancellation policy, directions and confirmation of the details, call 617-223-8676.

Veterans must bring proof of service. The weather, while unpredictable, can be predictably cold. So dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes and sun block. Bring lunch and water. Be prepared to walk on uneven surfaces and, if the surf is up, wear your sea legs.

For a brief introduction to Lovells Island and Fort Standish, visit http://www.nps.gov/boha/historyculture/facts-love.htm

For a brief introduction to Georges Island and Fort Warren, visit http://www.nps.gov/boha/historyculture/facts-geor.htm

I hope to see you there.

Barry Hass