Why do we preserve the U.S. Constitution, the Statue of Liberty, the Liberty Bell, the Apollo space capsules, or numerous military vessels such as the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Intrepid? We do so to preserve our country's heritage. We do so to better understand the world as it was, so that we may take inspiration and experience from those who came before us.

The United States is an awe-inspiring example of American innovation, ingenuity and national pride. A relative newcomer to the world of shipbuilding, the United States - with this ship that would not only fly her flag but bear her name - proved capable of producing a vessel that far exceeded the safety, utility and speed of competing ships from around the world. She remains to this day the fastest ocean liner ever constructed, a one of a kind technological marvel and the last survivor of America's great passenger ships.

Her top speed of nearly 50 mph may not seem impressive in comparison to today's primary means of trans-Atlantic travel, the jet. But at the time of her maiden voyage in 1952 this was a breakthrough on par with the iPod, and just as "cool". Mail, parcels and passengers could for the first time travel from New York to Europe in less than four days; and do so in comfort and style!

There is so much more history and inspiration to be taken from America's Flagship. For example, her speed, the great lengths taken to prevent the peril of fire at sea, and her nearly $80 million price tag are all attributable, in part, to the dawning of the cold war. While her red, white and blue livery may have been a symbol of victory in World War II, it was her ability to transform into a military troopship that made her existence possible. It was the innovation, ingenuity, industry and American spirit that made her a global celebrity and a source of national pride.

History can be told through photos, recordings and printed words - but only to a degree. It is far more compelling to contemplate a steel hulk the size of a building moving across the ocean at the speed of a car while standing upon her decks. It is one thing to see a photo of the Grand Canyon, read the facts and look at the figures. It is quite another to experience these things in person.

In 2003 the SS United States was purchased by Norwegian Cruise Line for restoration as a U.S. flagged cruise ship capable of sailing between American ports without leaving the country. In the face of rising fuel and material prices a cost effective plan for restoring the ship to service could not be devised. Ownership of was eventually transferred to NCL parent company Genting Hong Kong, Ltd. (previously known as Star Cruises).

The ship was placed on the market for sale in February, 2009. Having faced widespread criticism for the sale for demolition of two other classic ocean liners - the SS Norway (former France) and America's SS Independence - NCL, acting as agent for Genting, was very aware of the historic and patriotic nature of the SS United States. As a result the company placed restrictions on the terms of sale. No offers were to be considered from any non-U.S. entities or from companies wishing to dismantle the ship for her steel and aluminum.

One year later in February, 2010, having received no workable proposals, bidding was opened to all - breakers inclusive - and a March deadline was announced. During a dramatic last-minute mobilization by both the SS United States Trust and colleague SS United States Conservancy, Philadelphia philanthropist H. F. "Gerry" Lenfest answered the call and committed what would eventually be $5.8 million toward the purchase and short-term preservation of the ship.

At the time of this writing (July, 2010) the SS United States has received a brief reprieve. While Mr. Lenfest's donation provides for nearly two years of basic upkeep there is a more daunting challenge that must be overcome with a much shorter timeline. The EPA has allowed until only February, 2011, to begin abatement of miles of wiring onboard insulated by material containing PCB's. If this requirement is not met the sale cannot be concluded and the ship can then only be sold for scrap.

The effort to preserve this incredible national treasure presents a wonderful opportunity to unite our country and ignite a renewed sense of national pride. Just as the nation pulled together during two World Wars and when it came time to build America's Flagship saving the United States will be up to patriotic Americans willing to do their part, however large or small!

Here are a few things you can do to help Save the United States!

• Make a donation! Even if you can only contribute $10, $20 or $100, every contribution helps the effort and encourages others to participate. To learn more about making a donation, click Uncle Sam at right!
  
  
• Tell everyone you know! Post a link on your Facebook and MySpace, e-mail everyone in your contact list, and even drop a few postcards to friends, families and acquaintances you haven't spoken in to in years! The ONLY way to get the word to every American about this important national cause is through word of mouth referrals. Commit to telling at least twenty people and asking each of them to do the same.
  
  
• Consider donations of advertising space or promotional opportunities with your employer, church, community organization or place of business. Many employers will offer to match contributions made by employees during a fixed campaign window (and can benefit from the tax deduction!).
  
  
• Contact local media outlets and radio/tv personalities to see if they would be willing to promote the cause with their audiences.

Donate today, donate often and be sure to tell everyone you know that they, too, can take part in re-energizing America's national pride. With the help of those who still believe America is the greatest nation on Earth we can save the United States!