Experience History in Stockton, California: The USS Lucid

"... any man who may be asked in this century what he did to make his life worthwhile, I think can respond with a good deal of pride and satisfaction: ‘I served in the United States Navy.’” - President John F. Kennedy.

As the sun rises in the east, its warm rays shine across the blue waters of the Delta. The rays reach the port of the San Joaquin Building Futures Academy (SJBFA)—and the large structure docked there. A structure that was first built nearly 70 years ago and roamed the oceans of the Pacific. Tasked with the mission of minesweeping during the Vietnam War, it concluded its service to the US in 1976 and became privately owned. Now, in the hands of those preserving our nation's history, it is in the process of being returned to its previous glory. Those behind the restoration are the members of the Stockton Historical Maritime Museum—and the structure is the USS Lucid (MSO-458).

History on Display

"To reach a port, we must sail - sail, not tie at anchor - sail, not drift." - President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Setting foot on the USS Lucid is like transporting yourself back in time to the era of the Cold War. From the deck looking across the Delta, you can imagine the experience of this "Aggressive Class" ship sailing through dangerous waters of the Pacific Ocean. Moving to the front of the ship, you can pace yourself next to the newly installed Bofors 40 mm cannon. Standing in the shadow of such an enormous device can be amazing, intriguing, and intimidating.

Sail On, Sailor

“Anchors aweigh, my boys, anchors aweigh.” - Joyce Eilers & Bob Lowden.

Walking through the insides of this naval vessel is a journey into the everyday life of a Navy seaman. The barracks they lived in, the mess hall where they ate, and the tiny room plunged in red lighting where the decisions were made to fire upon enemy combatants are all there being restored to their original form. The slight claustrophobia of the slim hallways vanishes as you learn of the many men who served as captain of the USS Lucid. You experience firsthand what it was like between the '50s and '70s to be a Navy crewman aboard this vessel during a time of uncertainty, the Cold War.

Each turn inside the USS Lucid is another chapter in its life story; a look into the memory of its military career and the crew who served aboard her. With the addition of a gift shop providing more material that digs deeper into naval history, you'll leave with a fresh perspective on this Stockton-based historical landmark.

For more on this amazing part of history and its future here in Stockton, check out the Stockton Historical Maritime Museum's video below:

To visit the USS Lucid, be sure to contact them here as tours are currently conducted on an appointment basis.

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