Developed in 2022 the Navy Memorial Sea Service Speaker Series provides opportunities for Sea Service Veterans and Historians to engage communities across the country by sharing compelling stories that Honor, Recognize, and Celebrate the men and women of the Sea Services, while informing the public about their service and legacy.

The Navy Memorial Education Department supports a team of speakers recognized for their educational scholarship, original research, and personal connections to the subjects they present. These speakers bring depth, expertise, and authenticity to each engagement.

Navy Memorial Educational Speakers have presented to diverse audiences, including military and Veteran organizations, colleges and universities, public schools, Veteran reunions, and community groups nationwide.

Featured speakers:

Presentation Title: World War Two Battle history of the USS Missouri and reflections of Tokyo Bay. Learn the story of a battleship Officer who Commissioned during the height of World War Two and whose service on the Mighty Mo would shape his life. 

Presented by Mr. Blane Ampthor, sharing the experiences of his Father, World War Two, USS Missouri Veteran, LTJG. Francis Ampthor.

Presentation Title: The Galloping Ghost of the Java Coast: World War Two battle history of the USS Houston. From the sinking, Hell Ships, survivors POW Experiences’ building the ‘Burma-Thailand Death Railway’ which included The Bridge on the River Kwai and liberation. 

Presented by John Schwarz, Executive Director, USS Houston (CA-30) Survivors’ Association and Next Generations. This presentation brings the past to life and will vividly share the eye-witness account and experience of USS Houston Survivor, Hell Ship Survivor, POW, Death Railway Survivor, and World War Two Veteran, Otto C. Schwarz, the Father of John Schwarz.

For more information, contact Education@navymemorial.org.