Why Does Chicago Need a Navy Memorial?
We are building a replica of USS Wolverine at Navy Pier to help tell the story of the major role Chicago and surrounding areas played in both World Wars.
See the PlansFighter & bomber planes of WWII
During WWII, fighter and bomber planes became crucial to the success of any one side at war. Through innovation, new technology, and reliable models, the U.S. Navy helped to shape the history of aviation.
Continuing the legacy
Hear a modern-day perspective on the importance of Navy Pier and the role of Vice Admiral from his grand-nephew, retired CPO Jeffrey L. Whitehead.
Herbert Sohn
At the young age of 17, Sohn tested into a training program at Navy Pier so secret, he couldn't tell anyone what it was: radar training with the U.S. Navy.
The Golden Thirteen
In May of 1944, thirteen African-American men would rise in the face of segregation and discrimination and forever change the history of the U.S. Navy.
Local businesses step up
When the U.S. entered into WWII, Chicagoland companies and factories raced to their aid, producing everything from GI rations and bomb sights to torpedoes and B-29 engines.