The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is now accepting applications for its 2025-2026 USS Alabama Crewmate contest, a longstanding ambassador program that offers young women scholarships and leadership opportunities.

Applications opened Monday, March 31, and can be completed online at www.ussalabama.com/get-involved/crewmates/ or at the park's gift shop, 2703 Battleship Parkway, which is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The deadline to apply is Friday, April 18 at 4 p.m.

The program is open to young women who will be at least 19 years old but not yet 21 by March 27 of this year. Applicants must reside in Mobile or Baldwin County during the application period and, if selected, throughout their term as a Crewmate. A full list of eligibility requirements is included in the application packet.

Each year, six young women are chosen to represent the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park and the state at various events and public appearances. Selection is based on poise, appearance, strength of application, references and an interview with a selection panel.

The Crewmate program provides scholarships to those selected. The 2025-2026 Miss USS Alabama will receive $3,000, Miss USS Drum will be awarded $2,500, and the four other Crewmates will each receive $2,000 to use at the college or university of their choice.

There is no entry fee or sponsorship requirement to participate. The USS Alabama Battleship Commission covers all uniforms, accessories and travel expenses for out-of-town events. All appearances are chaperoned by officials from the Battleship Memorial Park.

Established in 1967, the Crewmate program was created as an ambassador initiative for the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park. More than 300 young women have served as Crewmates, contributing thousands of hours of community service while earning scholarships and leadership experience.

For more information, contact Lynne Price at (251) 438-2834 or email lprice@ussalabama.com.