The federal government shutdown that’s kept the Blue Angels and other U.S. military units from taking part in Fleet Week 2025 threatens a World War II relic, supporters say.
The SS Jeremiah O’Brien is one of the last of the Liberty Ships. More than 2,700 of the cargo vessels were produced in record time in a race to replace ships being sunk by enemy forces.
Cruises on the SS Jeremiah O’Brien during Fleet Week typically provide a significant part of the operating revenue used to maintain the ship.
“This year’s government shutdown has left us in real danger,” the National Liberty Ship Memorial said Friday in a press release. “We face a serious challenge to keep this ship afloat.”
Despite the shutdown, supporters say the SS Jeremiah O’Brien “will still sail, rain or shine” for a day on the bay.
Tickets are $195 for adults, $125 for youths 8-18, and will be available at Pier 35 on Fisherman’s Wharf on the day of sailing, Oct. 11. Boarding begins at 8:30 a.m. The ship returns at 5 p.m.