Buffalo’s USS Croaker & The Sullivans Headed For Dry Dock

Just a few years after millions were spent to keep a Western New York landmark from sinking into the Buffalo River, it looks like it will need more extensive repairs.

READ MORE: Millions More Allocated To Repair USS The Sullivans In Buffalo

Officials from the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park in downtown Buffalo have noted that two ships docked in Buffalo will soon be dewatered and sent to dry dock for repairs.

The USS Croaker SSK-246 and USS The Sullivans DD-537, which have been a staple of the Buffalo waterfront for years, are heading for multi-million dollar upgrades as they're set to head down Lake Erie to Erie, PA, for repairs.

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The Sullivans, which is more than 80 years old, needs a new hull, and the Croaker, which is only a year younger than The Sullivans, also requires some repair.

These ships have served their country for years and now need the help of the community. Paul Marzello, President and CEO of the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, says the ships need more than $21 million in repairs. While they should be more than stable to serve Buffalo in 2024, the repairs are needed for the ships' continued viability.

Plans are underway to obtain funding from local, state, and federal sources, but one of the best things Western New York can do is visit the park or donate.