Mary McLeod Bethune gave the address at the launching ceremony and Marian Anderson christened the ship. As part of the Maritime Commission plan the ship was to be delivered after sea trials and acceptance to the command of the only African American in the nation to hold a master's certificate, Captain Hugh Mulzac.
Mary McLeod Bethune delivered the address at the launching ceremony, while Marian Anderson blessed the ship. As part of the Maritime Commission plan, the vessel was to be handed over after sea trials and acceptance to the command of the sole African American in the nation with a master's degree, Captain Hugh Mulzac.