MEDIA ALERT — FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
IRISH AMERICANS WILL PAINT THE BATTLESHIP NEW JERSEY GREEN TO COMMEMORATE COMMODORE JOHN BARRY AS PART OF THE NAVY’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY
Camden, NJ. Sept. 29, 2025: The Ancient order of Hibernians and Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, the largest Irish Catholic organizations in America will host a kick off reception onboard the Battleship New Jersey on Friday, October 3rd from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. The Irish Ambassador to the United States, Geraldine Byrne Nason, will address the gathering to credit the Irish born (Philadelphian) Commodore John Barry on his heroism during the Revolutionary War and on his accomplishments in the formation of the United States Navy some 250 years ago.
The reception will kick off the Commodore John Barry Museum Display to be featured on the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial located in Camden, New Jersey that will run from October 3, 2025 through December 31, 2025. The Irish born Philadelphian was a hero of the Continental Navy and first Commissioned Officer and first Flag Officer in the United States Navy. The display shows the history of this great Patriot who was instrumental in winning America’s independence and went on to build the United States Navy and start first U.S. Naval Academy training future leaders onboard the frigate United States. A must see for those interested in learning about Commodore Barry, there are historic displays, artifacts and a multimedia interview with the Commodore himself.
Featured Speakers
Her Excellency Geraldine Byrne Nason
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ireland
The Honorable Garry Laffan
Lord Mayor of Wexford, Ireland
RADM Samuel Cox, USN (Ret)
Director Naval History and Heritage Command
Mr. Marshall Spevak
CEO of the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial
NOTE: Parking arrangements in the Battleship New Jersey’s lot are available for camera crews and reporters. Please contact Julianne Dods or j.dods@battleshipnewjersey.org to obtain the information.
For more information, visit battleshipnewjersey.org or call (856) 966-1652
About Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial: The Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial is America’s most decorated battleship and serves as a symbol of our nation’s military history and strength. Located on the Camden waterfront, Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to preserving history and educating the public about the service of the men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Media Contact:
Julianne Dods
Deputy Executive Director of Strategic Growth
Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial
856-966-1652 xx 201
j.dods@battleshipnewjersey.org
CC:
Marshall Spevak, Chief Executive Officer, Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial
Emma Hermo, Social Media Manager, Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial
