About Us Press Releases
Fandango on-bard with the Re-Flagging of Freedom
BALTIMORE, MD - November 18, 2003 - Fandango Special Events is proud to announce the contract for the induction of the car carrier ship, Freedom, into the U.S. flag-fleet at the Dundalk Marine Terminal. The event, designed to focus upon the importance of the U.S. merchant fleet to the nation's economy and security, took place on October 30, 2003.
Lt. Gen. Gary H. Hughey, deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command, spoke at the event and stressed the importance of the crucial service that is provided to U.S. military operations by the U.S. -flag merchant fleet and American contract civilian mariners. "This ship renaming, and I would submit, more importantly, it's re-flagging, is a significant event for the ARC, our merchant marines and this great nation." He added, "We celebrate many things today, chiefly the renaming of the ship, but most especially, what ARC and America's dedicated merchant mariners on U.S. -flag ships are doing to ensure victory in the global war on terrorism."
ARC turned to Fandango's Tim Reber for his expertise in challenging unveilings and impressive stage sets. The most dynamic element of the event was the dramatic reveal of the 20-foot American flag, which unfurled majestically from the 25-foot ceiling of the Marine Terminal at the moment the ribbon (in this case, rope) was cut. As soon as the flag unfurled to the left, the navy blue drape to the right of the stage split to reveal a 12-foot x 22-foot photo mural of the newly re-flagged Freedom. Fandango's signature Stars and Stripes Twisters filled the massive space with patriotic flare.
The event also hosted such VIP's as Maritime Administrator, William Schubert; president of the Seafarer's International Union of North America, Mike Sacco and Helen Bentley, a former U.S. congresswoman and advocate of the U.S. maritime industry. Bentley was named godmother of the Freedom.
"Freedom in all of its various manifestations-- economic freedom, political freedom, social freedom and religious freedom-- is the concept that's launched countless ships," Bentley said.
The Freedom, formerly named the Takamine, is owned by American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC) and is one of only five car carriers operated by Pacific Gulf Marine (PGM). American Maritime Officers represents all licensed officers working aboard the Freedom and the other four ARC car carriers operated by PGM: the Independence, Liberty, Resolve and Patriot.
Fandango Special Events is a full-service event design, production, and management company with an impeccable regional and national reputation for understanding clients' needs, exceeding expectations, and producing unique and memorable events.