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1981.140; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
1981.140; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
Helm from the SS Mayaguez
1981.140; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
1981.140; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum
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Helm from the SS Mayaguez

Artifact ID1981.140
Object Type Wheel, Ship's
Date before 1975
Medium wood, metal, polish
DimensionsOverall D 22 in x Diam 40 in (55.9 cm x 101.6 cm )
Physical DescriptionA wooden helm has eight spokes protruding from a round bronze axle. There are eight handles attached to the rim.
Historical NotePresident Gerald R. Ford received this ship’s wheel from the SS Mayaguez as a token of appreciation on July 24, 1975. Participants included Captain Charles T. Miller (SS Mayaguez), Michael R. McEvoy (Chairman of Sea-Land Services), Colin Stokes (Chairman of R.J. Reynolds), J. Paul Sticht (President of R.J. Reynolds), Dennis Durden (Director of Corporate Affairs at R.J. Reynolds), 1st Officer Clinton Harriman (USNS Greenville Victory), 3rd Officer Karl Lonsdale (USNS Greenville Victory), 2nd Assistant Engineer Michael Saltwick (USNS Greenville Victory), Yeoman Robert Griffin (USNS Greenville Victory), Oiler Epifanio Rodriguez (USNS Greenville Victory), Oiler Hermino Rivera (USNS Greenville Victory), and Rear Admiral Samuel Moore (USN). The Cambodian navy had seized the American merchant ship on May 12, 1975, held it hostage until U.S. military forces sent in by President Ford recaptured it.Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThe general public gifted the item to President Gerald R. Ford during his term in office. It was presented to Ford and was maintained at the Executive Office of the President until its transfer to the National Archives in 1981 for deposit with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.
Credit LineGift of Captain Charles Miller
National Archives Catalog CollectionGerald R. Ford Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 620931)
National Archives Catalog SeriesPublic Gifts Given to President Gerald R. Ford (74639696)
Use Restriction Status Unrestricted
Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
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