The retired aircraft carrier Oriskany (1945-1976) was successfully reefed on May 17, 2006, approximately 24 miles southeast of Pensacola Pass to become the world's largest artificial reef! At 911 feet in length, the "Mighty O" is an exceptional destination for divers. and will soon become a hot spot giving anglers the opportunity to reel in popular game fish such as grouper, snapper and amberjack.
The reefing was accomplished with controlled charges in 212 feet of water in Pensacola. Prior to the reefing, a memorial service was conducted at the National Naval Aviation Museum to pay tribute to the crew and the ship that has provided exemplary service to our Navy and country.
EOD divers confirmed that the ship is sitting upright in the north-south orientation. Her island can be approached at 78 feet in emerald-clear water where visibility averages 60 to 100+ feet. From the island divers can scan the seemingly endless flight deck sitting at 145 feet, a depth considered a technical dive. CNN dubbed The Mighty Oriskany the "Great Carrier Reef."
ORISKANY MEDIA
 For more information regarding and photos of the Oriskany, visit one of the following links below:
Media Contact Information:
Laura Lee, Communications and Media Manger for the Pensacola Bay Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (850) 434-1234 or (800) 874-1234.
Tom Roush, Film Liaison (850) 434-0700 or (800) 874-1234.
*One of the driving forces behind bringing the ex-USS Oriskany to Pensacola was Vice Admiral Jack Fetterman, USN (Ret) who passed away on Friday, March 24, 2006. Federal District Judge Lacey Collier and the late Pensacola Mayor Emeritus Vince Whibbs assumed the roles of Co-Chairman to see the Admiral's vision to completion.
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