August 6, 2008 Update: The Freedom began sea trials offshore Marinette, Wisconsin on July 28, 2008.
The Freedom is shown here conducting a speed run as part of her sea trials offshore Marinette, Wisconsin on August 4, 2008. Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin.
Dick Lund, a photographer who has long had a great interest on the Great Lakes, has terrific photography on the Freedom as she left the production facility and headed out for her trials on July 28, 2008. Dick has agreed to allow us to post a few. We commend his web site to your attention where you can view all his work.
The Coast Guard employed two armed boats to patrol the area in support of the sea trials. This photo was taken on July 28, 2008.
The USS Freedom leaves its dock on the Menominee River at Marinette, Wisconsin, July 28, 2008.
After being turned around, she is towed out to Lake Michigan, July 28, 2008.
USS Freedom approaches Menekaunee draw bridge in Marinette, Wisconsin as she heads out for sea trials. Photo credit: MC3 Jhi L. Scott
A nice broadside view of Freedom as she heads out, July 28, 2008.
Freedom heads out on her own steam for the first time, July 28, 2008. She conducted some maneuvers close to shore for about 5.5 hours before returning to her dock on the Menominee River.
She backs into the inner harbor on her own for the first time, July 30, 2008, with tugs and Coast Guard standing by.
USS Freedom cranks up her speed on Day 7 of her sea trials, August 3, 2008. This last photo is credited to Pat De Ridder, who was kind enough to allow Dick Lund to use it on his web site. It is indeed a great shot. Throttle 'er up Skipper!
