Battleship Memorial Park is calling on young women from the Mobile area to apply for the 48th Annual USS Alabama Crewmate Contest, an ambassador program that has awarded scholarships to more than 200 participants since it began nearly five decades ago.
Crewmates selected through the contest represent Battleship Memorial Park and the state of Alabama at public relations events across the state throughout the year. Selection is based on poise, appearance, application materials, references and interviews with a selection panel.
Applications were being accepted through April 10 and could be downloaded from www.ussalabama.com or picked up in person between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the ticket office of Battleship Memorial Park, located at 2703 Battleship Parkway.
Six young women are chosen each year to serve as Crewmates. The newly selected Miss USS Alabama receives a $2,000 scholarship, Miss USS Drum receives $1,500, and the remaining four Crewmates each receive $1,000. All of the scholarship funds can be applied toward the college or university of the recipient’s choice.
The contest carries no entry fees or sponsorship requirements. All uniforms and accessories worn during official appearances are provided at no cost by the Battleship Commission, which also covers travel expenses for any out-of-town events. Every function the Crewmates attend is fully chaperoned by Battleship Memorial Park officials.
The Crewmate program dates back to 1967, when it was created as an ambassador effort tied to the newly established USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. In the decades since, more than 200 young women have served as Crewmates, receiving scholarship support while contributing thousands of volunteer hours to the park and to communities throughout Alabama.
Anyone with questions about the program was directed to contact Lynne Price at 251-438-2834 or by email at lprice@ussalabama.com.