MUSKEGON — Wonderland Distilling Company announced a special
partnership with the USS Silversides Submarine Museum to commemorate the highly
anticipated return of the historic USS Silversides (SS-236) to Muskegon following its time in
dry dock. In celebration of this milestone, the two organizations have collaborated to
create a special-edition SS-236 Navy Strength Rum, with an official release event
scheduled for Saturday, November 21, 2026, beginning at noon at Wonderland Distilling
Company.

The commemorative release celebrates not only the submarine’s return to its longtime
home along the Muskegon waterfront but also the extraordinary history, service, and
sacrifice represented by the USS Silversides and the generations of sailors who served
aboard her.

As one of the most celebrated American submarines of World War II, the USS Silversides
holds a special place in both naval history and the Muskegon community. Its return from
dry dock represents an important chapter in the ongoing preservation of this remarkable
vessel for future generations.

“When we learned that the Silversides would be heading into dry dock, we knew we wanted
to do something special to celebrate her return,” said Allen Serio, co-founder of
Wonderland Distilling Company. “The Silversides is so much more than a submarine
sitting in our harbor. She’s a piece of American history, a symbol of courage and sacrifice,
and something that makes Muskegon truly special. As a locally owned distillery, we take
tremendous pride in celebrating the people, places, and stories that define our community.
Partnering with the Silversides team to create this commemorative rum was a natural fit,
and we’re incredibly proud to be part of welcoming her home.”

The SS-236 Navy Strength Rum was developed specifically for this occasion, drawing
inspiration from the longstanding maritime traditions associated with naval-strength
spirits. Traditionally bottled at a higher proof than standard rum, navy strength rum reflects
a historic connection between seafaring culture and the spirits carried aboard ships.
The collaboration brings together two Muskegon organizations with a shared commitment
to craftsmanship, heritage, and community.

“The return of the USS Silversides is an incredibly meaningful moment for our museum and
for the entire Muskegon community,” said Nicole Hayden of the USS Silversides
Submarine Museum. “This submarine represents the bravery and dedication of the sailors
who served aboard her, and preserving that history is at the heart of everything we do.
We’re excited to partner with Wonderland Distilling on a unique commemorative release
that celebrates her homecoming and gives our community another special way to connect
with the legacy of the Silversides.”

The official release event on November 21 will offer the public an opportunity to celebrate
the submarine’s return and purchase this special-edition spirit.

“One of the things we’ve always believed at Wonderland is that a great spirit should tell a
story,” Serio added. “This bottle tells a story of service, history, preservation, and
hometown pride. We hope people will see it as more than just a bottle of rum. It’s a tribute
to the Silversides, the men who served aboard her, and the community that continues to
preserve her legacy.”

Official Release Event
SS-236 Navy Strength Rum — Commemorative Release
• Date: Saturday, November 21, 2026
• Time: Doors open at 12:00 PM (Noon)
• Location: Wonderland Distilling Company, Muskegon, Michigan
• Release: Special-Edition SS-236 Navy Strength Rum
• Occasion: Celebrating the return of USS Silversides (SS-236) from dry dock
Additional event details and release information will be shared through Wonderland
Distilling Company’s and the USS Silversides Submarine Museum’s official communication
channels.