The tale of two plaques. Both purchased by your author.

This plaque purchased at a church rummage for 50 cents. The green USS Helena CA-75 was added by your author. It measures 13 inches across.

This plaque was purchased on eBay for $62.06. It is an original plaque made by an unknown USS Helena CA-75 shipmate in 1957 or later. It measures 15" wide by 17" high and weighs 6 pounds. The shield is made of wood and measures 3/4 inches thick. The Helena image is cast in metal. It measures 5/5 inch thick and 11 3/4 inches across.

Your author the day the plaque arrived in the mail.
We both look a little old and worn--do you think?

The original plaque will be held by our Helena Organization President
and one day we hope it will reside in a Helena, MT Museum.

Picture donated by John Galla who served on the USS Des Moines CA-134.
While visiting the USS Salem CA-139, a museum ship in Quincy, Mass., John found this USS Helena plaque on display.

Does anyone know the purpose of this plaque?

Posted 1 May 2009

Note the Plaque in the background.

The following picture is part of page 42 from the USS Helena CA-75 Cruise Book 1961.
To view, click HERE!
Thanks to the sharp eyes and memory of Shipmate Warren Peverill who clearly remembers polishing the plaque.
While aboard the Helena, Warren was assigned to the 2nd Division before becoming an ENFN in "A" Division.

Picture taken during the 1961 Portland, OR Rose Festival.
Captain Abhau welcomes Rose Queen Linda Fuqua aboard Helena.

Does anyone recall the purpose of this plaque?