On June 14, 2003, USSVI Marblehead Base gathered to pay tribute to a submarine sailor from Newburyport, MA who was lost on the USS CAPELIN SS-289

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Newburyport has a city ordinance that requires new streets to be named after local people who have given their lives in the defense of their country.

George R. Melvin was the only Newburyport resident lost on submarines during WWII. The new street is to be named Melvin Court.

About 20 Subvets gathered at the entrance of the new street to unveil the sign, which sported shiny new dolphins. In addition, Newburyport Mayor Alan Lavender and City Councilor Joseph Spaulding were in attendance. Mr. Spaulding played a key role in making this event possible.

The ceremony was brief, yet solemn. A short prayer was followed by a reading from Psalm 107. There were a few remarks by the mayor and Councilor Spaulding. After George Melvin's history aboard USS Capelin was read the street sign was unveiled.

Also present was Mrs. Peg Foley, a great-great niece of submarine pioneer John Holland. Incidentally, Mrs. Foley had already purchased a plot of land on the new street.

Marblehead Base presented Mrs. Foley a commemorative coin with a likeness of her ancestor John Holland. She also showed a scrap book with Holland memorabilia.

Marblehead Base would like to express appreciation to Vice Commander Stan Dixon and shipmate Raymond Brooks for their efforts in making this event possible.