Bill Kuzmick is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, and he served for 11 years.

He’s president of the SS American Victory- a merchant marine ship that was active during World War II, the Korean and Vietnam War.

“I like to remind people she still serves today because we have a lot of training with active-duty military, reserve military, firefighters, police officers, working dogs --you name it,” said Kuzmick. “It’s a unique place to celebrate the Fourth of July where we celebrate our nation’s history.”

What did merchant marine ship do in war?

“A merchant marine ship in World War II provided all the supplies ammunition, food,” said Kuzmick. “And anything that the services-all the branches of the services- might have needed during World War II and beyond.”

The Victory Ship Class replaced the Liberty Ship Class because the Victory ships could outrun enemy vessels.

“It’s a lot bigger cargo-wise, but mostly, it’s a lot faster,” said Kuzmick.

In addition to outrunning enemy vessels, the ship also had to be outfitted for defense with multiple guns.

“They could not be used to attack the enemy-only to defend themselves,” said Kuzmick.

Shipbuilders made this vessel in 55 days.

She came off a dry dock in California in 1945.

“She circumnavigated the globe a couple of times after this and came back to us here,” said Kuzmick.

Kuzmick says the work they do is humbling.

“As people come tonight to the event, they are celebrating the history of the nation. And as they walk away, I hope they recognize the ship and the culture that built it and made it successful thrives and is still alive and well," said Kuzmick, "and I hope that we inspire the generations coming forth to do the same.”

Of the 534 SS American Victory class ships created—only three remain.