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[ Former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld | Photo provided by Bob Humphries ]

A Midland Daily News feature highlighted the recent celebration with USS Gerald R. Ford Ship Sponsor Susan Ford Bales and former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld in Midland, MI. Andrew N. Liveris, CEO of The Dow Chemical Co., and J. Donald Sheets, Executive Vice President and CFO of Dow-Corning, served as event co-hosts as the Midland community turned out to strongly support the Commissioning of the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78).

Foundation Trustees Donald Rumsfeld and Susan Ford Bales reflected on President Ford’s legacy and on the impact of the Midland community’s support for CVN 78. “Dad’s friendship with the Midland community spanned decades, and the support the community has given to his namesake carrier is a shining example of why that friendship is timeless,” said Susan Ford Bales. “Future generations of sailors will come to recognize and understand the extraordinary integrity Dad showed during his years of public service — integrity that the Midland community has once again honored.”

“President Ford was a man of courage and solid values — traits that were grounded in his deep Michigan roots. The men and women who will sail the USS Gerald R. Ford will bring those same qualities in their service to our country,” said former Secretary Donald Rumsfeld.

The official Commissioning Committee for the carrier has begun planning for the Ford’s anticipated Commissioning in 2016. The Committee is seeking contributions from the public to fund special enhancements to the ship that will benefit and improve the quality of life for all crew members and their families and will additionally support the commissioning ceremonies. Learn more about the USS Gerald R. Ford Commissioning Committee

The funds raised will directly enhance the onboard lives of the ship’s crew, including accessions to the ship’s library, the Learning Resource Center/Training Classrooms, and chapel. Accessions will also include the USS Gerald R. Ford Tribute Room, the ship’s ceremonial quarterdeck and the commanding officer’s in-port cabin.

To read more from the Midland Daily News please visit: http://www.ourmidland.com/news/midland-has-tribute-in-support-of-the-uss-gerald-r/article_6c281f4a-6060-11e5-84d3-1b9d25b88fbe.html

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