A large group of people assembled for a solemn event on a dock by the water for the christening of a boat. Military color guards furl flags and rifles, and photographers and videographers record as attendees salute or put hands over their hearts.

RV John J. Freidhoff commissioned at the Field Station

May 11, 2009

The college's new custom-built research vessel was christened the RV John J. Freidhoff on May 11, 2009 in memory of Captain John J. Freidhoff, who died in a tragic diving accident in 2007. Captain John served as the college's field station manager and boat captain since 1994. He was also a lieutenant commander with the United States Coast Guard Reserve, which was leading the naming ceremony. The event was attended by over 100 people and was widely covered by local media.