Model re-creates Vandenberg sinking at show
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A model of the U.S.S. Vandenberg is sunk during a demonstration at a recent dive trade show in Orlando. (Photo by Andy Newman)
Crowds gathered to watch the Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg sink - twice - miles away from the nearest coastline.
A scale model of Key West's famed 527-foot-long shipwreck reef was sunk in a demonstration pool Nov. 5 and Nov. 6 in Orlando at the Dive Equipment Marketing Association (DEMA) Show, the world's large scuba trade show.
Reefmakers and Stevens Institute of Technology re-created the sinking of the former missile-tracking ship. The Florida Keys & Key West tourism council helped sponsor the event.
"It was amazing how closely it matched what actually happened," said Bob Smith, Key West dive professional who helped sink the real Vandenberg that lies in 140 feet of water off Key West.
The sinking event helped promote the Florida Keys Wreck Trek, a tour that highlights the Keys' successful artificial-reef program.
A number of Florida Keys dive operations exhibited at the annual DEMA Show.
