
PEARL HARBOR (July 15, 2017) The crew of the Navy’s newest Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, USS John Finn (DDG 113) brings the ship to life during its commissioning ceremony. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Aiyana Paschal)
One of the Navy’s newest Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, USS John Finn (DDG 113), was brought to life and into the fleet July 15 at Hawaii’s Pearl Harbor – a fitting commissioning venue, as the namesake’s Dec. 7, 1941, heroic actions 30 miles away at Kaneohe Bay are the stuff of Navy legend.
Chief Aviation Ordnanceman John Finn, was World War II’s first Medal of Honor recipient whom Adm. Chester Nimitz said displayed, “magnificent courage in the face of certain death” during the attack on Pearl Harbor and other Oahu military targets in 1941. Finn manned a .50-caliber machine gun while under heavy enemy machine gun fire. Although wounded, he continued to fight until ordered to vacate his post to seek medical attention. Following first aid treatment, he returned to action and led the charge to rearm aircraft returning from missions.
John Finn is the 63rd Arleigh Burke-class destroyer and was delivered to the Navy from shipbuilder Huntington Ingalls Industries on the 75th anniversary of the attacks on Pearl Harbor, Dec. 7, 2016.
“I can’t think of a more fitting place to commission this ship than right here at Pearl Harbor, where we can honor the legacy of John Finn and all Americans from the ‘Greatest Generation’ and reflect on the blessings and costs of liberty,” remarked Adm. Harry Harris, Jr., commander, U.S. Pacific Command. “Thankfully, America has always been blessed to have strong women and men who find the will and summon the courage to endure against overwhelming odds; patriots like John Finn, who answered the call to defend our nation in her darkest hour.”
Recognizing the ship’s motto to “stand fast and fight,” Harris praised the ship’s firepower and capabilities as a testament to its namesake’s readiness in battle and determination in the face of danger. The Navy’s newest ship and her crew is ready to deliver – just like Chief Finn did as he manned a machine gun while wounded and under intense enemy fire.
“John Finn brings both the saber and the shield into the fight,” said Harris. “Truly, the advanced combat systems, coupled with the innovative spirit and the killer instinct of her amazing crew, are powerful reminders of our readiness to fight tonight. This warship is the embodiment of America’s resolve to protect our homeland and defend our allies.”
Harris pointed out that the Aegis-capable destroyers like John Finn expand America’s projection of power and leadership in the Pacific.
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