The USS Edson received the Navy Unit Commendation for its service during the Vietnam War.
It is one of only two remaining Forrest Sherman-class destroyers in the United States.
The ship is officially recognized as a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service.
During its active service, the ship was nicknamed 'The Gray Ghost of the East Coast' due to its operational history.
The museum is maintained and operated by the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum organization, a non-profit entity.
The vessel weighs approximately 4,000 tons and features an overall length of 418 feet.
The U.S.S. Edson (DD-946) is a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer permanently docked on the Saginaw River in Bay City, Michigan. It is designated as a National Historic Landmark, recognized for its role in naval operations from 1958 to 1988. Visitors tour multiple decks of the ship, including the bridge, engine room, combat information center, and crew quarters. The museum preserves original mid-20th-century naval technology and equipment. It serves as a maritime educational facility focusing on the history of the U.S. Navy during the Cold War and the Vietnam War era. The ship was decommissioned after thirty years of active service before becoming a museum vessel.
The aft deck looking toward the rear gun turret and the Saginaw River waterfront.
Wear flat, rubber-soled shoes to safely navigate the steep, ladder-like stairways throughout the ship.
Bring a light jacket as temperatures inside the lower decks remain cool regardless of exterior weather.
Check the official website for scheduled 'Ghost Ship' events if visiting during the autumn season.
Do not attempt to visit if you have significant mobility challenges, as the ship features many narrow hatches and steep vertical ladders.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays; operates seasonally with limited availability during winter months.
Avoid touching sensitive control panels and follow all signage regarding restricted areas.
