Fincantieri Bay starts dry dock work on WWII submarine USS Silversides

Photo: USS Silversides Submarine Museum

Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding in Sturgeon Bay, Wis,, welcomed a national treasure to the shipyard yesterday as the USS Silversides – a decorated WWII submarine – arrived for a three-month preservation project after being towed across Lake Michigan from the USS Silversides Submarine Museum in Muskegon, Mich.

During the dry dock period, specialists at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding will perform a comprehensive restoration effort, including hull cleaning, structural inspections, and the application of advanced protective coatings to ensure long-term stability. The vessel has not been in dry dock for preservation for more than 50 years, according to the USS Silversides Museum, which notes that delaying this work would increasesthe risk of structural deterioration, safety concerns, and significantly higher repair costs. The estimated $3.5 million project is supported by a $750,000 grant through the Save America’s Treasures Grant Program, administered by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.

“We are honored to support the preservation of this historic submarine,” said Jeffrey Frank, VP and general manager of Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding. “This project requires the kind of careful planning, skilled trade work, and technical coordination that our team takes great pride in delivering.”

USS Silversides, a Gato-class submarine, is one of the most decorated subs of World War II. It is owned by and prominently displayed at the Muskegon museum.

“This project marks an important milestone in ensuring this historical landmark remains preserved for future generations, “ said Veronica Campbell, executive director of the USS Silversides Submarine Museum. “We know the submarine is in excellent hands with the skilled team at Fincantieri, and we are grateful for the professionalism and care they are bringing to this project. This effort is a testament to what can be accomplished when communities come together to protect and preserve our nation’s history.”