Ken Jones was invited to the National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg, TX on Saturday, December 6, 2025 for the Grand Reopening of the George H. W. Bush Gallery - the main exhibition space for the history of the Pacific War. Mr. Jones cut the red-ribbon during the ceremony to officially reopen the museum.

Ken is a veteran of Battleship USS Colorado (BB-45) which earned seven Battle Stars for service in WWII and was present in Tokyo Bay for the signing of the Japanese Surrender. Ken was a participant in the 2018 Commissioning Ceremony of USS Colorado (SSN 788)

as the veteran who passed the long glass to the oncoming watch.

Since its original debut in 2009, the George H. W. Bush Gallery has been recognized as the nation's leading account of the Pacific War. The recent renovation enhances that experience by refreshing the environment, clarifying the narrative flow, and incorporating new forms of interpretation.

The Grand Reopening event featured remarks from George P. Bush, former Texas Land Commissioner and grandson of President George H. W. Bush and a ribbon-cutting ceremony by WWII veterans - which included Ken Jones.

Frank Weber, a 101-year-old World War II veteran, resides in Scappoose, Ore., and continues to reflect on his remarkable naval career.

Born on May 25, 1924 in Kansas City, Kans., Weber joined the navy at 17, inspired by his cousins.

He began boot camp at Great Lakes near Chicago on Nov. 27, 1941, just days before the attack on Pearl Harbor.

His training was cut short due to the war, and he was assigned to the USS Colorado, the only battleship in the Pacific fleet not at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7.

More information on this link: https://katu.com/news/local/wwii-veteran-frank-weber-reflects-on-storied-naval-career-at-age-101-living-in-oregon-portland-scappoose-centenarian-uss-colorado-world-war-two-veterans-day 

Best wishes for a prosperous and Happy New Year. We remain profoundly grateful for your unwavering devotion and look forward to continued support in 2026!

Wishing our USS Colorado supporters a very Merry Christmas! Your steadfast support and dedication are truly appreciated.  May your holiday season be filled with joy and peace.

Wishing our USS Colorado supporters a joyful and memorable Thanksgiving! Thank you for your continued dedication and support—it truly makes a difference to the crew and their families.

The FRG sends a huge THANK YOU to everyone that donated items for their Halloween Party.  We appreciate your support of the USS Colorado families!

The FRG is gearing up for their annual Halloween Party and has put together a wishlist of items to celebrate with crew and family.  They asked that items arrive by October 23^rd.

Be sure to doublecheck shipping address to ensure it shows shipping to USS Colorado FRG c/o Jessica James.

Let’s fulfill their wishlist so they have a spooktacular event! 

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2IP0JRB06WJ9J?ref_=wl_share

The USS Colorado FRG had their annual Family Day at Honemoon Beach and it was a huge success!

The USS Colorado Submarine Association was able to assist the FRG with funding for the event thanks to our members and supporters! Great big THANK YOU to all that make it possible to support our sailors and families.

If you are interested in donating for future events, please click below:

https://ucsa.wildapricot.org/donate

USS Colorado Submarine Association is an authorized 501C3 Organization. Contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. 

The USS Colorado Family Readiness Group (FRG) is hosting their annual fundraiser to support the crew and family. Get your USS Colorado gear styled with a Hawaiian flare.

Please have a look and place your order(s) by September 17th.

Questions can be emailed to the FRG at usscoloradofrg@gmail.com. Happy shopping!

Click here for link to USS Colorado FRG Fundraiser.