Michael C. Fina to Create Custom China for USS NEW YORK
By Staff -- Gifts & Decorative Accessories, 11/3/2009 4:28:00 PM
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| U.S.S. New York |
The china service was commissioned by the ship's sponsor, Dotty England. Traditionally, the sponsor of each U.S. Navy ship presents a personal gift to the ship and its crew, which can range from books to paintings. England said in a statement, "Michael C. Fina has a reputation as a landmark New York retailer, and it was a pleasure to work with them in providing a traditional gift in tribute to this historic ship. This china service will be used at formal occasions and diplomatic gatherings on the ship as her sailors and Marines represent the United States around the world in the years ahead."
"We are honored to have been a part of this endeavor," said Steven Fina, vice president of Michael C. Fina. "Bringing beauty and personality to each and every home or home away from home has long been a mission of Michael C. Fina, and we are happy to have been able to do this for USS NEW YORK."
Pickard, a historic china house, made the service. Pickard has designed and produced china in the United States since 1893 for individuals as well as the White House and various government organizations. The service includes a dinner plate, salad plate, bread and butter plate, cup and saucer, mug and soup bowl. Many pieces in the custom service incorporate an image of the ship and the words "Never Forget," from the ship's motto, "Strength Forged Through Sacrifice. Never Forget." Other pieces bear the ship's crest.
As the ship’s sponsor, England will christen the ship by breaking a champagne bottle over the bow and give the order to "Bring this ship to life!"
England is the wife of Gordon England, former Deputy Secretary of Defense, who decided to name the ship for New York while serving as the 72nd Secretary of the Navy. Sister ships are named the USS ARLINGTON and USS SOMERSET to honor those who were killed in Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon on September 11.





























