Muskogee's War Memorial Park to relocate, first step in moving USS Batfish to permanent site

MUSKOGEE’S WAR MEMORIAL PARK RELOCATES AFTER 52 YEARS, MARKS FIRST STEP TOWARD MOVING USS BATFISH TO PERMANENT SITE

Muskogee, OK (July 1, 2025) - After 52 years at its original location, Muskogee's War Memorial Park and Museum will relocate to a temporary location at Port Muskogee's Three Forks Harbor on July 1, 2025. 

This move marks the first phase of the long-anticipated relocation of the USS Batfish to its permanent home at the Oklahoma War Memorial and Museum. In the meantime, the museum exhibits will be temporarily housed inside the Robinson Gallery and Event Center—located directly adjacent to the Batfish’s future site at Three Forks Harbor.

“This is an important first step toward giving the Batfish the permanent home it deserves,” said James Gulley, Chairman of the War Memorial Park Authority. “We’re grateful to the State of Oklahoma and all those who continue to support our mission as we move forward with a vision that honors our veterans and preserves this historic vessel for future generations.”

On May 22, the Oklahoma Legislature approved HB2794, allocating $4 million in FY26 funding to the USS Batfish. The state appropriation is being used to help relocate the historic military vessel and Oklahoma landmark.

Operating hours will be announced soon at oklahomawarmemorialpark.org.