CrossCountry Mortgage (CCM), the nation’s number one retail mortgage lender, and the Cleveland Browns partnered with the USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation to sponsor the weight room aboard the USS Cleveland (LCS 31) and install a special Cleveland-themed mural in support of its commissioning.
“It’s an honor for CCM to stand behind the sailors of the USS Cleveland and to be part of this historic moment,” said Ron Leonhardt, Founder and CEO of CrossCountry Mortgage. “While we have a national reach, Cleveland is our home. We’re proud to celebrate alongside our community and to recognize the service and sacrifice of the men and women aboard the ship.”
CCM donated the fitness equipment and worked with the Cleveland Browns to outfit the USS Cleveland’s weight room, creating a space that will support sailors on board every day. A custom Cleveland-themed mural was also installed in a nearby hallway, bringing the energy and culture that define the city into the space. The opportunity was part of CCM’s ongoing partnership with the Cleveland Browns in support of the NFL’s Salute to Service initiative.
“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 Nicholas Lippert, Managing Director of the USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation. “We are thankful for the support and partnership of CrossCountry Mortgage and the Cleveland Browns, helping to ensure our sailors know they have the support of this community.”
The commissioning of the USS Cleveland (LCS 31) took place on May 16, marking the official moment the ship entered active service in the United States Navy. The historic ceremony was the first time in 250 years that a U.S. Navy warship was commissioned in the State of Ohio — an unprecedented milestone for our city, our state, and our nation.
“We’re proud to support the brave men and women who serve our country aboard the USS Cleveland,” said Dave Jenkins, Haslam Sports Group President. “Through our partnership with CrossCountry Mortgage, we’re honored to be part of an effort that reflects our deep respect for the Military and reinforces our commitment to initiatives like Salute to Service, which recognize and honor the sacrifices of service members.”
Earlier this year, CCM hosted the USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation’s 3-1 Day Celebration at the company’s headquarters, marking the one-year anniversary of Mayor Justin Bibb’s proclamation officially designating March 1 (3-1) as “USS Cleveland Day.” The observance brought together community leaders, U.S. Navy sailors, sponsors and supports to discuss updates on the USS Cleveland Commissioning and its impact on the community.
About the USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation
The USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting the sailors and families of the future USS Cleveland (LCS 31) and fostering a lifelong bond between the ship and the people of Cleveland and Northeast Ohio. While commissioning will mark a historic beginning in spring 2026, the Foundation’s mission is enduring — providing long-term support to the sailors, their families and the community that proudly stands behind them.
About the Cleveland Browns and Browns Give Back:
The Cleveland Browns focus on advancing education, youth football and equitable opportunities across Northeast Ohio and beyond. For more information, visit www.clevelandbrowns.com/brownsgiveback and follow @BrownsGiveBack.