Chuck the Iguana isn’t just a playful mascot; he’s inspired by a real world story of life aboard the Mighty Mo and the sailors who helped shape her legacy.
The USS Missouri, affectionately known as the “Mighty Mo,” is the last battleship commissioned by the United States Navy and one of the most celebrated warships in history. From her launch in 1944 to her pivotal role in the Pacific Theater of World War II and the formal Japanese surrender aboard her deck, the Korean War and Operation Desert Storm, the Missouri stands as a living symbol of service, sacrifice, and peace.
Long before she became a museum ship, Sailors aboard the Missouri brought with them the traditions, stories, and companionship that made life at sea resemble a second family. One particular tale that captured the spirit of that shipboard camaraderie comes from Angelo “Rosie” Rosselli, a Sailor who served the Missouri during overseas deployments, including time in the Philippines. During one of the Missouri’s missions, Rosie encountered an iguana that quietly became known as the ship’s little stowaway companion. That iguana became a shipmate in spirit, a reminder that even in the vast expanses of the ocean, moments of joy, curiosity, and connection can be found in the most unexpected places.
Inspired by Rosie’s story, Chuck the Iguana was brought to life, not just as a mascot, but as a bridge between generations, families, and the visitors who explore the Battleship Missouri Memorial today. Chuck embodies exploration, curiosity, and the joy of uncovering stories hidden in plain sight.
Now, Chuck leads young explorers and families on Chuck’s Quest: Secrets of the Mighty Mo, an interactive scavenger hunt that transforms a museum visit into a mission of discovery. As guests follow Chuck’s clues through 14 key stops on the ship, they uncover history, decode messages once used by Sailors, and learn about life at sea through the lens of engaging storytelling and hands-on exploration.
Chuck’s arrival on the Missouri, marks a new chapter for the Battleship Missouri Memorial: one that honors the legacy of the ship’s storied past while inviting a new generation to connect, explore, and make history their own. His story reminds us that even in the mightiest of warships, a little curiosity can spark the greatest adventures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Secrets of the Mighty Mo
Chuck’s Quest is a self-guided scavenger hunt experience aboard the Battleship Missouri Memorial. Guests walk in the footsteps of history, decode signal flags, and uncover stories from the ship and the Sailors who served aboard her, guided by Chuck the Iguana, a curious stowaway.
Chuck is the Battleship Missouri Memorial’s newest mascot and “best-kept secret.” Inspired by the real iguana that once lived aboard the ship, Chuck represents curiosity, exploration, and storytelling. As a former “stowaway,” he now serves as a fun, friendly guide helping young explorers discover the Mighty Mo’s illustrious history.
Chuck was brought to life to help connect children and families to the Mighty Mo’s impressive history in a more engaging and approachable way. He brings storytelling, imagination, and fun into the visitor experience while still honoring the ship’s legacy and the Sailors who served aboard her.
Chuck’s Quest is designed primarily for school-aged children (approximately ages 4–12),
but it’s fun and engaging for guests of all ages. Families, school groups, and even adults enjoy following the clues and learning together.
Chuck’s Quest is available for $8, and is an optional add-on to any general admission
ticket. It can be added to tickets purchased online or on-site.
Each Chuck’s Quest experience includes:
- A scavenger hunt booklet with coloring pages inside
- A decoder to solve hidden clues
- Fun facts, Sailor slang, and activities
- A take-home experience that can be reused for coloring and learning
- A special keepsake and honorary crew ID upon completion
Booklets are picked up on-site at the Battleship Missouri Memorial pier, before boarding
the ship. Clear signage and staff will guide you to the pickup location.
Chuck’s Quest is designed to be completed at your own pace and follows the ship’s
standard tour path and takes an average of 45 minutes. Most families complete it during their visit without adding extra time, though guests are welcome to linger and explore.
Yes, we recommend one booklet per participating child so each explorer can fully engage with the activities and clues and officially join the Battleship Missouri’s honorary crew!
Yes! Chuck’s Quest is available daily as part of the Battleship Missouri Memorial experience.
Chuck’s Quest is not included with general admission, but can be easily added on to enhance your visit.
Bug Juice is a fun, kid-approved drink inspired by life aboard the Mighty Mo and Chuck’s favorite “fuel.” Don’t worry, there are no bugs
involved! It’s a playful part of the Chuck experience that adds to the adventure and a little history.
Chuck’s Quest turns a visit to the Mighty Mo into an interactive adventure, keeping kids engaged, encouraging curiosity, and helping families explore history together in a fun and memorable way.