TOMS RIVER – A Toms River Scout has recently completed his Eagle Scout Project helping restore the historic battleship USS New Jersey.
Maurice Dattoli IV, a junior at Toms River High School East and the Senior Patrol Leader of Silverton Boy Scout Troop 59, led the restoration of the Starboard Ram Room in Aft Steering on August 17.
The USS New Jersey is the most experienced battleship in U.S. history, having served in WWII, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and Lebanese Civil War. It’s played a crucial role in leading the Pacific Fleet and participated in the largest naval battles in history, including the Battle of the Philippine Sea and the Battle for Leyte Gulf.
The battleship is the second most decorated ship in naval history – earning 19 battle stars second only to the USS Enterprise.
The Battleship New Jersey is now decommissioned and serves as a historical museum and memorial on the Delaware River in Camden.
Maurice said he wanted to complete a service project that he could proudly look back upon in future years.
“The opportunity to help preserve a significant piece of American history was one of the main reasons I chose this as my project,” Maurice said.
Photo courtesy Toms River Troop 59
Maurice’s project took nearly a year and involved around 170 hours of planning, fundraising, and execution.
During this time, Maurice was guided by Dan Sarandrea, a veteran and dedicated museum volunteer.
Volunteers degreased and sanded the walls and ceiling of the Starboard Ram Room, which took about six hours.
“The Starboard Ram Room in Aft Steering houses the critical machinery that controls the ship’s rudder, ensuring precise maneuverability during naval operations. This room’s function was vital for the USS New Jersey’s ability to navigate and engage effectively in battle, making it an essential component of the ship’s combat capabilities,” a press release stated.
Once the restoration was completed, Sarandrea gave the team a detailed tour of the ship.
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