CrossCountry Mortgage (CCM), the nation’s number one retail mortgage lender for the third consecutive year, is honoring the Military community by sponsoring the weight room aboard the future USS Cleveland and commissioning a Cleveland-themed mural to decorate the space.
“We have deep respect for the men and women who serve our country and are always looking for ways to honor their service,” said Ron Leonhardt, Founder and CEO, CrossCountry Mortgage. “Even though CCM has a national reach, Cleveland is our home. Being part of this historic moment for our city — and standing behind the sailors of the USS Cleveland — is something we’re very proud of.”
CCM is donating fitness equipment for the ship’s weight room and inviting local artists to design a mural that that will be displayed in the room, serving as a daily reminder that the Cleveland community supports the crew. The opportunity is part of the company’s ongoing partnership with the Cleveland Browns in support of the NFL’s Salute to Service initiative.
Local artists can learn more and submit designs here.
“Over the life of this ship, thousands of sailors will serve aboard and take the name Cleveland to the far corners of the world,” said Nick Lippert, Managing Director of the USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation. “This partnership ensures they know Northeast Ohio supports them every step of the way.”
The USS Cleveland will be commissioned in May — marking the first time a U.S. Navy ship has been commissioned in the State of Ohio. Community celebrations and the formal commissioning ceremony will be open and free to the public.