Synopsis:

Author and underwater explorer Valerie van Heest commemorates the tragic Armistice Day Blizzard of 1940 in which five ships and 64 sailors were lost. She examines the wrecks of the Novadoc and Anna C. Minch, and presents the only footage ever captured of the William B. Davock, all lost off West Michigan. She provides insight into what caused these massive freighters to sink when others survived the storm and helps the sons of two Davock victims say final goodbyes to their fathers. 

Speaker Bio:

Valerie is an underwater explorer, museum exhibit designer and author of seven books. She has spearheaded the discovery of 20 shipwrecks off West Michigan and surveyed over 50 shipwrecks. Her work has earned her a spot in the Women Divers Hall of Fame, appearances on episodes of numerous television series, and coverage in a variety of news feature stories.  She is the recipient of a Michigan State History award for her efforts to preserve the states’ maritime history and recently received an award from the Association for Great Lakes Maritime History recognizing her decades of Historical Interpretation work.