Patriots Point to mark 80th anniversary of attack on U.S.S. Laffey

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD) – Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum will honor fallen sailors from what is now known as ‘The Ship That Would Not Die.’

April 16 marks the 80^th anniversary of the attack on the U.S. Laffey during the World War II Battle of Okinawa. For more than 80 minutes, the Laffey was attacked by 22 aircraft, with seven kamikazes and four bombs hitting the ship.

Officials say 32 sailors were killed in the battle. Those lives will be remembered during a ceremony Wednesday on the fantail of the Laffey at 10 a.m.

The event will also include a presentation on the strategic significance of the Laffey and a guided walk-through of kamikaze impact sites aboard the ship.

The memorial ceremony is open to the public. You can purchase tickets at patriotspoint.org.