Rear Admiral and Columbus, Ohio, native Matthew Pottenburgh will deliver remarks during the program, along with other local leaders and dignitaries. The U.S. Navy Band will perform. Following the ceremony, there will be a “meet-and-greet” opportunity with Navy personnel in attendance. The ceremony kicks off a week of Navy activities throughout the Greater Columbus community.

“Navy Week is about connecting our sailors with the communities we serve — showing who we are, what we do, and why it matters,” said Rear Adm. Pottenburgh, commander of Naval Service Training Command and senior executive for Navy Week. “The National Veterans Memorial and Museum will be at the center of that effort during Columbus Navy Week, hosting a kickoff celebration and proclamation, and an evening with the Blue Angels — dynamic events which, like the museum itself, bring service above self and Navy history to life. This week is especially meaningful as this is the Navy’s 250th anniversary!”