Getting Ready for the Governor

Pat Bragdon of Lewes paints the Missouri gun barrel at the Fort Miles Museum in preparation for Gov. Jack A. Markell’s visit Sept. 2. Markell will be at Cape Henlopen State Park to dedicate the Museum’s new artillery display that includes this 16-inch gun, 8-inch and 6-inch guns and other weapons. The 16-inch barrel was on the USS Missouri when the Japanese surrendered to end World War II in 1945. Fort Miles Historical Association acquired the gun from the Navy and moved it from Chesapeake, Va. by barge and train in 2012. Bragdon, a volunteer member of FMHA’s Bunker Busters, has been painting the 16-inch gun in steamy August heat. The dedication and Governor Markell’s visit, at 11 a.m. Sept. 2, are open to the public. Delaware State Parks has waived the Cape Henlopen entrance fee to visitors who mention the event. Information: 302-645-6852.

Photo credit: George M. Ward/FMHA