Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center Opening and Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary 5^th Anniversary Gala Photo Gallery

U.S. Senator Carl Levin, recent recipient of the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation Stewardship Award speaks during Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Grand Opening event.

The Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center is expected to draw more than 60,000 visitors a year.

NMSF Trustee and ocean explorer Dr. Robert Ballard signing posters for visitors.

Anniversary gala Master of Ceremonies and NMSF Trustee Dr. Robert Ballard with Stewardship Award recipients Betty Krueger and U.S. Senator Carl Levin.

U.S. Senator Carl Levin speaking with some future U.S. Navy sailors after  the dinner and awards program.

Tribute dinner guests were surrounded by photos taken from Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary shipwreck explorations.

U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak presents the Preserve America Certificate to Alpena Mayor John Gilmet and Alpena Councilwoman Carol Shafto.

Master of Ceremonies and NMSF Trustee Dr. Robert Ballard treats guests to the telepresence technology that enables shipwreck divers to communicate in real time with people on shore.

NMSF Trustee and ocean explorer Dr. Robert Ballard (left) and Michigan Congressman Bart Stupak (right) lead others in the unveiling of the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center.

The Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center hosts its first visitors.