The historical battle colors carried by troops of the North and South at the Civil War battle of Antietam Creek in 1862, were presented to the USS Antietam during a flight deck ceremony on April 11, 1953. The presentation took place while the USS Antietam was berthed in Bayonne, N.J. The battle streamers were presented by the Infantry Regiment of New York's "fighting 69th Division" and the 167the Infantry Regiment of the "Old 4th Alabama Division." The colors were to remain in the custody of the Antietam for the duration of active service. (Information courtesy of Art Morr and Willie Hunt)
Presenting Flag: Col. Martin Foery
Color Guard: Joe Trolani, Tom Fitzsimmons, Frank Kelly, Joe Gordon, Julie Alfonso
Flag Presented To: Capt. Mitchell
The flag is presently stored in the amory at Lexington Ave. in New York City. (Thanks to John Hallanan)