GROTON -- The fleet has arrived in Groton, but the submarines are a bit smaller than usual.
As part of the celebration to honor 100 years of the Naval Submarine Base New London, local artists painted mini-sized subs. Now, 21 of the miniature subs are being housed at Grasso Technical High School, and will soon hit the "CT Sub Trail" so all can enjoy them.
The Sub Trail is the brainchild of Joy Supples, a Grasso Tech art teacher.
"It's an icon that represents our community," Supples said of the subs. "Our community is based on our involvement with the sub base and the defense industry."
Supples was part of a committee that selected 21 of the best designs to travel the CT Sub Trail and be on display in venues like Mohegan Sun, Foxwoods, The Groton Public Library and New London's Union Station.
Chip Adams, an artist from West Hartford, created his sub called "The Turtle," which is a tribute to the first submarine used in American warfare.
"It's amazing the see the variety," Adams said. "Each one has a unique identity."
Artist Haley Gautier added, "They are all so beautiful, everyone did a great job."
The sub sculptures will be on display at Groton's 4th of July parade and then be placed on the Sub Trail beginning July 5. To find out more or download the CT Sub Trail App, click here.
