USS Bataan to Host Court

Contractors are working overtime transforming the flight deck of the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) into a full-scale basketball court for the Navy-Marine Corps Classic scheduled for, Nov. 9, at Naval Station Mayport.

The classic, which will feature the University of Florida Gators and the Georgetown University Hoyas, will be one of many events scheduled to take place during the city’s celebration of the “Week of Valor.”

Crews are planning to work 10-hour shifts for the next two days to complete the construction. The seating area is built to hold more than 3,500 spectators. “We want to make sure this event is perfect,” said Lillian Voros, staging technician for Sounds Good Audio (SGA).

While the SGA team works to put up framing and supports, others work to lay out the court and ensure services will be available for the event. Teamwork is a key factor essential to completing a project of this magnitude.

“We’ve had a lot of coordination with the city of Jacksonville and with the Southeast region,” said Capt. Erik Ross, commanding officer, USS Bataan (LHD 5). For several months there have been visitors from Jacksonville to the Bataan in Norfolk, Va., to meet with contractors and ensure this event is a success.

In addition to the construction of frames, seating and support beams, sound and lighting are equally important to ensure a quality viewing experience.

“We are providing television quality lighting for the game“, said Scott VanHelten, shop operations manager for Musco Mobile Lightning. “The goal is to make the classic a memorable event which will honor veterans and active duty members as well as the families who support them.”

The classic is slated to be televised live from the flight deck of Bataan. The basketball game, along with other local events, are hosted by the city of Jacksonville and the Florida Blue Corporation.

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Naval Today Staff, November 7, 2012; Image: US Navy