More than 50 Sailors assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) visited the Virginia Beach Town Center to view a theatrical history of President Lincoln’s life, Nov. 28.
Prior to the performance of “ Lincoln: the Man, the Movie, the Magic, ” a Civil War-style band played in the foyer of the theater while several actors portraying Lincoln talked with and posed for pictures with Sailors and other attendees.
The program included a presentation by John Quarstein, a Lincoln historian, and appearances by local actors and production professionals who had roles in the filming of the major motion picture, “Lincoln,” much of which took place in Richmond, Va.
Captain Karl O. Thomas, Lincoln’s commanding officer, said he enjoyed the opportunity to take a break from work to focus on the proud history of the man whose likeness graces his ship.
“It’s good to be back on the east coast after our eight-month deployment,” Thomas said. “ It’s our pleasure to be a part of this event, representing our ship’s namesake and becoming an integral part of the Hampton Roads community.”
Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Zachary A. Anderson said that President Lincoln is such an iconic figure, he found himself practically star-struck before the show.
“I enjoyed the event very much,” Anderson said. “I got to take a photo with the president, Abe Lincoln himself!”
Lincoln is currently in Norfolk preparing for an upcoming four-year refueling and complex overhaul (RCOH) in Newport News, Va.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, December 2, 2012