Captain Dave Truitt Takes the Helm at CMM

CMM is pleased to announce the election of long-time museum board member and one of CMM’s original founders, Captain Dave Truitt, as the museum’s new chairman after the recent retirement of Doug Walker.

A Hyde Park native and highly regarded community philanthropist, Captain Dave is a former Flotilla Commander with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary. During his lengthy career, Truitt has served on nautical organizations including as chairman of the USS Midway Memorial Committee for the Navy League and as founding chairman of the Chicago Marine Heritage Society. He also serves and supports the Great Lakes Naval Museum, the Pritzker Military Museum & Library, and the Christmas Tree Ship.

“As I take on this new role, I offer my sincere appreciation to Doug Walker, who’s leadership has brought us to where we are today,” says Truitt. “Doug has led us through multiple challenges including the recovery from the 2020 flooding, weathering of the pandemic closure, supporting us through our first major fundraising campaign, and the reopening of the museum. We appreciate his years of service and support of the CMM.”
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Also as part of the organizational change, Jerry Thomas, President Emeritus has been named CMM Vice-Chairman. In this role, he will continue to manage the operations side of the museum.