l. to r.: Edward and Patricia Bursk, Earl Hill and retired Capt. Richard Wright at the bell’s dedication

On the second floor of the University of Baltimore’s Langsdale Library rests the 1,000-pound bronze bell from the USS Baltimore. The bell, which originally came to UB in 1984, is surrounded by photos of the naval cruiser, commemorative plaques and other historical naval prints; it serves as both a memento of the cruiser’s illustrious career and a symbol of the newly established USS Baltimore (CA-68) Shipmates Scholarship.

At the November dedication of the bell’s return to Langsdale after being remounted—it also previously resided in the John and Frances Angelos Law Center and in the Academic Center—former USS Baltimore crew members pledged $25,000 to endow a scholarship for an incoming freshman who demonstrates financial need and outstanding academic achievement. “This scholarship is given to honor the memory of the USS Baltimore and the dedicated officers and men who served on it,” retired Capt. Christos “Chris” Zirps says. Zirps, who served on the cruiser December 1953-August 1955, is one of approximately 350 shipmates who still gather for biennial reunions, like the one held at UB as part of the bell’s dedication.

Donations from the shipmates will build the endowment to $25,000, and eventually, income from the fund will provide an annual scholarship. Zirps has pledged funding for two scholarship awards in upcoming academic years so students will be able to benefit from the shipmates’ generosity immediately.

o“We are honored to be able to commemorate the service that this ship—and especially its crews—provided,” says Theresa Silanskis, UB vice president for institutional advancement. “UB students who receive this scholarship, as well as those who see the bell in its place of honor, will remember the commitment of these individuals.”