RockBuzz Stateline's Post

The USS Beloit Legacy Foundation is inviting the community to meet members of the USS Beloit crew during a special Labor Day weekend visit to Beloit on September 5-6, 2026. Eight sailors from the USS Beloit, including Commander Jason DeJesus, will spend the weekend connecting with residents through a variety of community events. "The bond between the City of Beloit and the USS Beloit continues long after the ship's commissioning," said Drew Pennington, board member of the USS Beloit Legacy Foundation. "This visit is an opportunity for residents to meet the sailors who serve aboard our namesake ship and celebrate the unique relationship between the crew and our community." Public events include: Saturday, September 5 10 a.m. – Meet and Greet at the Beloit Farmers Market, Downtown Beloit Residents are encouraged to stop by and meet members of the USS Beloit crew, learn more about life aboard the Navy vessel, and hear firsthand about their service. 3 p.m. – Pickleball at Wootton Park, 1451 4th St Community members are invited to join crew members for an afternoon of pickleball and friendly competition. 6 p.m. – USS Beloit Night at the Beloit Sky Carp Game Join the crew at ABC Supply Stadium for USS Beloit Night. Proceeds from this fundraiser will benefit the USS Beloit Legacy Foundation. Fireworks are scheduled for after the game. Sunday, September 6 10:30 a.m. – Playground Visit at Turtle Island Playground, Riverside Park Families are invited to bring their children to meet crew members and enjoy one of Beloit's favorite playgrounds. The USS Beloit, a Freedom-variant Littoral Combat Ship, was commissioned in November 2024 and honors the City of Beloit and its longstanding tradition of innovation, manufacturing excellence, and service. Community members interested in learning more about the USS Beloit and the USS Beloit Legacy Foundation can visit https://www.ussbeloit.org/.