Susan Ford Bales, daughter of President Gerald R. Ford and USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) ship sponsor, addressed members of the media onboard the aircraft carrier Wednesday, July 19.

Bales sat in her father's presidential chair at the desk of the ship's Commanding Officer, Capt. Richard McCormack, in his in-port cabin, where she met with reporters to discuss the carrier's upcoming commissioning Saturday.

During the media availability, Bales discussed the legacy of her father and the significance of being the ship's sponsor.

"My dad was a very humble man and he was astounded and excited when he found out that this carrier was going to be named after him," said Bales. "Honor your country and have integrity. Let's remember, the motto is 'Integrity at the Helm' and I think that's what he would want [the Sailors] to do."

Bales pointed out various memorabilia throughout McCormack's in-port cabin to include family heirlooms, photographs and paintings, newspaper clippings, autographed books and the folded American flag that once draped over President Ford's coffin.

Pieces of Ford's legacy are spread throughout the ship, which is meant to help Sailors identify with the humanity of the late president, said Bales.

The media was also offered an opportunity to tour the newly constructed presidential tribute room that displays memorabilia and information honoring the ship's namesake - himself a former naval officer.

Over time, Bales has been a steady presence throughout the development of the ship.

"I think the biggest thing is to have fun with it and to be involved. I did what I thought my dad would have done, which is to be involved," said Bales. "I have tried to be here for all of the important things and it has made a difference in my life and I have had a great time doing it."

Bales officially christened the ship, attended the commanding officer's change of command ceremony and also unveiled her father's statue onboard, to list a few examples.

The statue of Gerald R. Ford depicts her father holding a sextant looking out over the horizon, and is displayed on Ford's ceremonial quarterdeck. The statue's foot rests on a symbolic scupper, which saved Ford's life during a WWII typhoon when he was nearly swept overboard, according to Bales.

Ford began his U.S. Navy service as an ensign in April 1942. He served aboard the light aircraft carrier USS Monterey from May 1943 to December 1944, excelling as the ship's director of physical training, gunnery officer and assistant navigator. He was honorably discharged in January 1946 at the grade of lieutenant commander.

Ford would go on to serve 13 terms in the House of Representatives, as vice president and as the nation's 38th president.

For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.