We are deeply saddened by the recent passing of Richard O'Leary, a member of the Conservancy's Advisory Council. Richard served as the youngest deck officer aboard the SS United States for five years beginning in 1957, and he later became a strong supporter of the Conservancy's efforts.
Richard O'Leary featured in an advertisement for Eastman Kodak aboard the Big U. From O'Leary's book, "One with the Sea."
In 2015, Richard's made a transformative gift to the Conservancy, extending a lifeline when the ship was in imminent danger. The SS United States remains proudly afloat today in no small measure because of his role. In providing this crucial support, Richard wrote: "The SS United States Conservancy is working to save the ship as a national monument and commercial development. I believe strongly that this effort must succeed. This ship represents a grand example of what Americans can accomplish. Under no circumstances should our nation's finest ocean liner be destroyed. To illuminate her red, white and blue stacks once again would serve as a gleaming and powerful symbol and would showcase the greatness of this country."
Richard's spirit will continue to guide us from his immortal perch on the Bridge Deck of the SS United States, and the Conservancy extends its deepest condolences to Richard's wife, Barbara, and to the entire O'Leary family during this painful time.