A Victory for L.A. Harbor Parade

Five years ago, when the S.S. Lane Victory was towed out of the mothball fleet, U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans’ volunteers were told the ship wasn’t fit to come into L.A. Harbor. This weekend, the restored World War II cargo ship--bearing Christmas lights, reindeer and cargo boxes decorated to look like giant gift packages--will proudly lead 100 other boats in L.A. Harbor’s Christmas Afloat boat parade, Saturday and Sunday at 6 p.m.

The ship will also offer the best seat for the parade. The public is invited on board, and the $40 ($25 for children 15 and under) includes food, entertainment and a great view of the parade. The ship will stop in front of Berth 196, near the judging stand, as the smaller boats pass by. The event will raise money to send the ship to France in 1994 for the 50th anniversary of landing at Normandy.

The S.S. Lane Victory, a National Historic Landmark, is open 7 days a week, including Christmas, at Berth 53 in San Pedro. A museum on-board displays World War II artifacts, photos, Jeeps and more, and visitors can tour everything from the engine room to the radio room. Admission is $2; $5 per family. For information, call (310) 519-9545.