Friday, March 20, 2026

Battleship NC to hold 250 flags tribute commemorating 250 years of Navy, Marine Corps

To commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps, the Battleship Memorial is launching a special initiative to raise and sell 250 American flags in a tribute that also serves to fund the ship’s ongoing preservation. (Port City Daily/File)

WILMINGTON — The Battleship North Carolina is inviting the public to take home a piece of history while honoring America’s sea services. 

READ MORE: Wilmington man wins $100K jackpot

To commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps, the Battleship Memorial is launching a special initiative to raise and sell 250 American flags in a tribute that also serves to fund the ship’s ongoing preservation.

The program, titled “250 Flags for 250 Years,” will see 250 individual flags ceremonially raised aboard the historic battleship. These events will take place on the services’ official birthdays: Monday, October 13, for the Navy, and Monday, November 10, for the Marine Corps. The ceremonies will be conducted alongside partners including the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, the Marine Detachment at Camp Lejeune and the Navy League of the United States Wilmington Council.

Executive Director of the Battleship North Carolina Dr. Jay C. Martin emphasized the meaning behind the flags, noting each one is “honored” and represents the service and sacrifice of generations.

Supporters can be part of the tribute by reserving one of the flown flags for $100. Each purchase includes a certificate of authenticity, verifying the flag was raised aboard the battleship. Proceeds from the sales are dedicated entirely to supporting programs and the ongoing preservation of the Battleship North Carolina. 

Flags can be reserved here.


Want to read more from PCD? Subscribe now and then sign up for our morning newsletter, Wilmington Wire, and get the headlines delivered to your inbox every morning.

Related Articles