My Fellow Clevelanders:
I am pleased to present this second annual report of the USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation (USSCLF), a nonprofit organization whose vision is to support positive civil-military relations by creating and maintaining a strong, meaningful, and direct bond between citizens of northeast Ohio and the crew of USS CLEVELAND (LCS 31).
The past year was an exciting period for the Foundation, as two eagerly anticipated events – Keel Laying of CLEVELAND and dedication of Cleveland’s Lone Sailor statue – both took place with appropriate pomp and ceremony.
Despite the ongoing global pandemic and associated economic challenges, the Foundation continued to achieve its objectives and experience meaningful growth. During 2021, support expanded from Greater Cleveland’s corporations, foundations, and individual philanthropists, as more of our community’s leaders learned about this rare civic project and generously signed on to support its initiatives. In addition, the USSCLF team grew with the addition of two new Directors, two additional Honorary Directors, and two more staff members. And while we mourned the loss of our dear friend, Emory Crowder, a World War II hero and a founding Honorary Director, we celebrated the Foundation’s second anniversary and the tremendous pace at which its development continued
As we reach the halfway point of Phase I and its mission “to send USS CLEVELAND (LCS 31) to the Fleet with the greatest start possible,” the Foundation eagerly looks forward to fast-approaching milestones – Christening of CLEVELAND later this year and public installation of The Lone Sailor – Cleveland in the summer of 2023, all leading to the Commissioning of our ship, projected for 2024, right here in Cleveland.
Thank you for your ongoing partnership as we do what no city has done before. Together, we are building a durable connection between Cleveland and the USS CLEVELAND, as our community supports those who serve the cause of freedom in the world’s finest navy.
Sincerely,
MICHAEL D. DOVILLA
President & Executive Director
