The USS Vermont Support Group is in the State House today, Friday April 17, waving the flag for the attack sub named after the Green Mountain State.

Nicknamed Big Sugar for the most famous product made in Vermont, USS Vermont is the 19th Virginia-class sub. 

The support group, an all-volunteer charity group dedicated to providing support for USS Vermont, her officers, crew and families, includes former Rep. Al Perry, a retired US Navy captain and sub commander. Two of his sons are U.S. Navy admirals and former sub commanders. Others are President Gary Frymire, VP Wayne Pickett, Treasurer Dick Bemis, and Secretary Pat McDonald. 

The group publishes a quarterly newsletter and speaks at community events. For example, on June 12 Perry spoke at the Air & Space Force Association NCO Club in South Burlington.

“Given this year was the 125th anniversary of the US Navy Submarine Force, and the 250th anniversary of the US Navy,” the Air Force veterans appreciated “learning more about their sub-surface brothers in arms,” the newsletter said. 

If you wish to receive the newsletter or learn more, email ussvtvsg@gmail.com.