Charles J Lundgren (New York, Connecticut, 1911 - 1988) "U.S.S. Vermont" Signed lower right. Oil on Masonite. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood Commemorative Cover for the U.S.S. Vermont. The U.S.S. Vermont -- one of the last pre-dreadnought warships built for the U.S. Navy -- was commissioned 4 March 1907 with Captain William P. Potter in command. She was part of the famous "Great White Fleet," and was assigned to sail with the 1st Division under Rear Admiral Robley "Fightin' Bob" Evans who was Commander in Chief of the Fleet. Following her return to the United States in 1909, U.S.S. Vermont underwent routine repairs before conducting target practice off the Virginia Capes in the Southern Drill Grounds. She moved to the waters off Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, on 12 January 1910 where she continued her training exercises in the Caribbean. She performed routine training service in the Southern Drill Grounds and the Caribbean until 1914. Then, as international tensions mounted between America and its southern neighbor, the U.S.S. Vermont sailed into Mexican waters to protect American interests. Mexico's military dictator Victoriano Huerta had reached an agreement with Germany, which was to ship a large supply of arms and munitions to him to solidify his government. The U.S.S. Vermont, in consort with other battleships, reached Vera Cruz on 22 April 1914 to block the arms delivery. At daybreak a battalion of 12 of her officers and 308 of her men went ashore to capture the port. Fierce fighting ensued, but the Americans were victorious. Image Size: 13.5 x 15.75 in. Overall Size: 20.5 x 21.75 in. Unframed. (B10720) See More