ABOUT THE SHIP: The USS Lexington is a decommissioned Essex Class carrier. Commissioned in 1943, she set more records than any other carrier in naval aviation. During WWII, the carrier participated in nearly EVERY major operation in the Pacific Theater spending 21 months in combat holding planes responsible for destroying 372 enemy aircraft in the air and 475 more land-based. Her nickname is the "Blue Ghost" because she was reported sunk four times, but she kept returning to fight. The name is a tribute to the ship and crew and air groups that served aboard.

WHAT WE WILL DO: We will check in at the base of the pier between 12-2 on Saturday (time assigned closer to visit) where we will then bring our gear on board and get our berthing assignments. You must be able to carry your gear (sleeping bags, pillow, toiletries, towel, clothes, etc.) on board. Once aboard, we will be issued wristbands that must remain on for the entirety of the experience.

We will see a movie in their 3D Mega plex, visit the quarters, have supper, attend a patriotic flag ceremony, participate in a scavenger hunt, have ghost stories (for those who want to attend -- it's not mandatory), tattoo and then lights out at 2300. The next morning Reveille plays at 6:45, we have breakfast, participate in morning colors, final quarters and make departures at 9:00 am. It's busy but it's fun. There are LOTS of ladders and walking as there are multiple decks that we will be on during the evening.  The Flight Deck is the most popular area and we'll get to see 20 aircraft from the National Museum of Naval Aviation.

Dinner and breakfast are provided. NO outside food is permitted. If you require special dietary needs, they can work with you.

A packing list will be provided to all attendees.

Sleeping arrangements: All camping groups are assigned specific berthing compartments  -- due to Covid restrictions, we do NOT have to share a berthing area with anyone NOT in our Unit (yay) but you still must respect the privacy of other campers. Restroom facilities (heads) include showers. Males and females are housed separately. As stated, the LEX can (and likely WILL) hold more than our group so groups may participate in activities together. So, if mom wants to bring her male Scout, he will be sleeping in the berthing area with all the other males from our group. What typically happens is all the kids bunk near each other and the adults spread out.

While they have the capacity to house over 450 people, due to the bug, they've reduced capacity. This, along with a ton of sanitation protocol means they can continue to provide this amazing experience to us.  We already have over 50 attendees going! As of August 13, there is still availability so get your registrations in ASAP. We will keep taking registrations until they notify us they're full. So the sooner you RSVP, the better.

MASKS are no longer mandatory but are encouraged.

AGE: Campers must be aged 5 and up.

DEADLINES: Payment in full is due upon registration.

In years past, we have driven down Friday night and stayed at various hotels. Each had breakfast the following morning and did a day trip to the Texas State Aquarium. This was a great way to not be road weary before a long night on the LEX. We were able to obtain group rates to the Aquarium and had lunch there. If there is an interest in this again, please indicate that on this form and we will include you in the group rates for that as well.