Naval Submarine Base Commander to Speak at La Grua Center April 26

Thursday, April 26, at 6 p.m.
Suggested Donation: $5     
 
Celebrating 150 Years of Naval Submarine Base New London
As part of its Military Matters Lecture Series, La Grua Center presents a talk with Capt. Paul Whitescarver, commanding officer of Naval Submarine Base New London. He will discuss a little of the base’s history, but even more importantly, bring us up to date with the base’s mission and role today in an ever-changing world of budget appropriations and shifting foreign allegiances. Q&A and a wine reception will follow.
 
The Military Matters Lecture Series launched in 2017. “With the military being such a vital part of life past and present in Southeastern Connecticut, it makes sense for us to take a deeper look at its role in our local history and economy. Clearly, with the significant presence of the Navy, Coast Guard and National Guard, as well as Electric Boat and dozens of defense industry contractors, there are plenty of interesting stories to tell, with so many people who can tell them,” said Executive Director Lori Robishaw.
 
Planned future speakers will include Capt. Wes Pulver (USCG, Ret.), executive director of the new National Coast Guard Museum.
 
Capt. Paul Whitescarver became the 51st Commanding Officer of Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton in December 2015. A native of Roanoke, VA, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in August 1980, serving 11 years in the enlisted ranks before being selected for the Enlisted Commissioning Program. Graduating from Virginia Tech in 1991 with a degree in economics, he then completed his initial officer nuclear power and submarine training.
 
At sea, he has served in the submarines USS MINNEAPOLIS-SAINT PAUL (SSN 708), USS NORFOLK (SSN 714), and USS ALABAMA (SSBN 731). He commanded USS SCRANTON (SSN 752) from 2009-12. Ashore, his assignments have included service on the Joint Staff and the Chief of Naval Operations Staff. Prior to taking command in Groton, he most recently served on the staff of Commander, Submarine Forces Atlantic in Norfolk as the Operations Officer.
 
La Grua Center lectures consist of a 45-minute talk followed by a question and answer session. This lecture will also be followed by a wine reception. The talk is open to the public with a suggested donation of $5. Free parking is available in the Stonington Commons parking lot at 32 Water Street in Stonington Borough.

Founded in 2007, La Grua Center is a nonprofit cultural center offering a wide range of programming located in Stonington Borough. Our concerts, lectures, art exhibits, and classes create opportunities for connection, expression, and learning. www.lagruacenter.org.