AVALON — Visitors and residents taking in the grand architecture of the Avalon Casino might notice a new addition among the 26 flags that adorn its perimeter, celebrating the seasons. This year, the familiar United States service flags — representing the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, Merchant Marine, and Coast Guard — are joined by the striking battle flag of the USS Fort Worth. This unique flag was generously donated by the USS Fort Worth Support Committee and the Town of Fort Worth, taking its place as part of the Casino’s Memorial Day flag display.
The presence of the USS Fort Worth’s flag carries a special connection to Catalina Island. The ship’s current skipper, Commander Dana Canby, is a proud 2002 graduate of Avalon High School. Commander Canby credits his formative years spent on Catalina Island with inspiring his call to serve at sea in the Navy, bringing a piece of the island’s spirit back to its majestic landmark.
United States warships are traditionally named by the Secretary of the Navy, a practice intended to imbue new vessels with the qualities of the battle, person, or place they represent. While ships within the same class often share identical designs, it is the dedicated ship’s support committee that provides unique touches for both the vessel and its crew. These committees foster a vital link between the ship and its namesake community.
“Five ships and 19 years into my naval career, I’ve never had a support committee as active as Fort Worth’s residents,” Commander Canby remarked, highlighting the exceptional dedication of the Texas community. The bond between the ship and its namesake is strong, with the crew frequently hosting committee members who visit the vessel nearly every month. Sailors onboard also eagerly anticipate being selected for an annual namesake visit to Fort Worth during the city’s celebrated Rodeo Week.
Currently, the USS Fort Worth is undergoing an extended period of maintenance and repair. During this time, the crew is engaged in intensive training, honing their skills to perform complex repairs at sea. This rigorous preparation ensures that when equipment inevitably breaks in challenging offshore conditions, the crew possesses the expertise to fix it, keeping the Fort Worth operational and mission-ready. Whether operating the ship in distant waters or training diligently in port along the San Diego waterfront, the Sailors onboard proudly represent the town of Fort Worth. Now, that representation extends directly to the roof of the iconic Avalon Casino, a fitting tribute connecting a modern warship to the island home of its commanding officer.
