Chicago Navy Week launched with an opening ceremony at Daley Plaza on Monday, August 5. The event, organized by the Chicago Navy Memorial Foundation and emceed by Toby Mack, co-chair of the foundation, brought together senior military leaders and local officials. Notable attendees included Cmdr. Christopher Stevens, chief staff officer of the Navy Reserve Readiness and Mobilization Command Great Lakes; Gilbert Villegas, 36th Ward Alderman and Marine Corps veteran; Bill Conway, 34th Ward Alderman and Navy Reservist; Kevin Barszcz, director of the Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs; Cmdr. Woody Williams, commanding officer of the USS Hyman G. Rickover (SSN-795); and Cmdr. Brian Wierzbicki, Chief of Public Engagement for the Vietnam War Commemoration.
The ceremony featured performances by the Navy Band Great Lakes and a color guard presentation by cadets from the Hyman G. Rickover Naval Academy. Chicago Navy Week, held from August 5 to August 11, 2024, is part of a series of nationwide events aimed at enhancing community relations and promoting awareness of the Navy's role and contributions.
Kick Off for Chicago Navy Week
