FWC provides security for historic SS United States reef project

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On Nov. 11, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Division of Law Enforcement was proud to be part of a once-in-a-lifetime project: the sinking of the historic SS United States to create the world's largest artificial reef, 22 miles off the coast of Destin.

The historic operation was a collaborative effort involving Okaloosa County, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and several other partner agencies, including marine units from Alabama, Louisiana and Texas.

"This project has been more than a year in the making, and I couldn't be prouder of the team that was out there on Wednesday. They gave it their very best," said Major Robby Creech, FWC Northwest Regional Commander. "We couldn't have done it without our brothers and sisters from Texas, Louisiana and Alabama. They came all the way here to support this mission, and that kind of partnership is what it's all about."

Following the vessel's arrival in Mobile, Alabama, in late 2024, FWC Northwest Region Lt. Jarrod Molnar took the lead in planning security and law enforcement support for the historic sinking. His responsibilities included developing and coordinating a comprehensive operational plan to enforce safety and security zones, manage spectator vessels, provide emergency medical services (EMS) and dive response capabilities, and coordinate overnight security coverage beginning 72 hours before the sinking.

Beginning with the transport of the vessel on Nov. 9, FWC deployed 65 personnel and assets to support the operation through its conclusion on Nov. 11. Despite hundreds of vessels arriving and departing the area to witness the historic event, there were no reported injuries or significant boating incidents throughout the operation.

"The setbacks along the way did nothing to diminish the honor of being part of this historic mission," said Lt. Molnar. "The dedication and commitment demonstrated by FWC personnel from across the state have been incredible. From our first walkthrough in Mobile to the final boat returning to the dock, the enthusiasm and excitement surrounding this project never wavered. That level of commitment is what kept this operation moving forward."

The SS United States measures 990 feet long, with a 101.5-foot beam and a 32.4-foot draft. When she was launched in 1952, she became the fastest ocean liner in the world, a record she still holds after crossing the Atlantic in just 3 days and 10 hours. Originally designed to serve as both a luxury passenger ship and a potential military transport, she was decommissioned in 1969 and remained docked in Philadelphia until 1996. After being towed more than 1,600 miles to Mobile, Alabama, in late 2024, the vessel entered the final stage of preparations for her transformation into an artificial reef.

The FWC Artificial Reef Program also collaborated with regional partners throughout the project, providing technical guidance in support of its statewide mission to enhance marine habitat and recreational opportunities through responsible artificial reef development.

Once established as an artificial reef, the SS United States will provide valuable structural habitat in an area where natural reef structure is relatively limited. Over time, the vessel will become colonized by algae, sponges, corals, barnacles and other marine invertebrates that form the foundation of a reef ecosystem. These organisms attract baitfish, which in turn support larger recreationally and ecologically important species, including snapper, grouper and other pelagic fish. The structure will also provide shelter and feeding opportunities for a wide variety of marine life.

Artificial reefs are especially valuable in Northwest Florida, where they expand available habitat for marine life while supporting the region's fishing, diving and tourism industries. These structures enhance local marine ecosystems and create additional recreational opportunities. Large, well-designed reef structures also help distribute fishing and diving activity across more locations, reducing concentrated use of existing reef sites.

Florida is home to one of the nation's most active artificial reef programs, with artificial reefs serving as an important tool for both marine habitat enhancement and coastal economic development.

As of October 2026, the FWC Artificial Reef Program had recorded more than 4,675 artificial reef deployment locations statewide. For a list of reef locations, visit FWC's Artificial Reef Locator.

"FWC was honored to be part of this historic effort while continuing to strengthen our partnerships with local, state and federal agencies," said Colonel Alberto Maza, FWC Division of Law Enforcement Commander. "Our team played an important role in making history, and I'm proud of the professionalism and dedication our officers and partner agencies demonstrated throughout this operation."