On Saturday morning January 10, 2004, the majestic Midway made her final journey from North Island Naval Station, across the bay to her final berth at the Navy Pier. Commissioned in 1945 she served proudly until 1992 during the Korean War, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf. She also served as the naval flagship during Operation Desert Storm in 1991. The lead ship of her class, she was the first aircraft carrier built that was too large to pass though the Panama Canal. She inspired all who served on her and now her "Midway Magic" will continue to inspire visitors from around the country and the world and chronicle the achievements and sacrifice of those who defended our nation.

Now the Midway will assume her new roll as The San Diego Aircraft Carrier Museum. The grand opening is scheduled for June 5, 2004 when she will provide a world-class historical, educational and inspirational experience for all who visit her. In the heart of bayside activities she will also provide an exciting venue for events of all kinds.

The Midway Aircraft Carrier Committee was founded in 1992 by a group of people who overcame every obstacle to make their vision a reality. Peartrees Catering was honored to join the Committee in 1995, and to be able to be part of this tribute to the country’s and San Diego’s naval history. It was very rewarding and exciting to watch our catering trucks hoisted aboard the Midway by crane the day before that trip across the bay, and an honor to cater the breakfast and brunch for all the dedicated civilian and military guests who made the trip. The Midway will be available for special events starting April 15, 2004. The flight deck offers a spectacular view of San Diego and the harbor. The hanger bay is inside, a deck below, and has an opening offering a view. The Midway will offer an unforgettable location for corporate and social events, company picnics and weddings. Call Peartrees Catering at 619-575-5500 and add a little "Midway Magic" to your next event!

View from the flight deck as the Midway is towed to the Navy Pier
January 10, 2004.

"Dear Jerry,
Cheers, we did it!
The USS Midway is home! After many years of hard work and dedication to this project, you have helped to make this dream a reality.

Please accept my sincere heartfelt gratitude for all that you have done over the past decade. It is truly appreciated. Here's to you and the continued success of the San Diego Aircraft Carrier Museum."

Sincerely,
Alan Uke
President, SDACM

"Dear Jerry,
I've been working with you for nearly 12 years and always come to the same conclusion, "you and your entire team are amazing!"

Having just completed three days of events aboard the USS Midway, I was able to see first hand how your crew works under pressure and performs like magic. The load in and out on this venue wasn't particularly easy. But, you handled it like a pro and left nothing to chance.

Years ago you told me about your vision with the USS Midway - San Diego Aircraft Carriere Museum. As you were early to point out, there is a lot of potential for the new venue. If we use our guests on April 23 and April 25 as a gage, it's a gold mine! In fact, ticket sales doubled for the school fundraiser compared to previous years. The look of awe on the guest's faces as they entered the hanger, or approached the flight deck was priceless. Every single person had a wonderful time!

Given the challenging set up and serve conditions, we were especially impressed with the food presentation, quality, and service. I don't know how you did it, but cooking on board was amazing and enabled you to serve food that was fresh and freshly prepared. It was wonderful! Your food servers were also very professional, kind, and willing to lend a helping hand.

Thank you for working with us to create a menu that would work for all of our events. I appreciate the good prices, quality product and superior service. Most of all I really appreciate you!"

Thank you,
Janette Lampe
Director of Special Events
Kaiser Permanente San Diego