SAN DIEGO (Feb. 3, 2018) Sailors assigned to littoral combat ship USS Omaha (LCS 12) salute as they man the rails during the ship’s commissioning ceremony at Broadway Pier in downtown San Diego. Omaha is the 11th littoral combat ship to enter the fleet and the sixth of the Independence variant. The ship is named for the city of Omaha, Nebraska and is assigned to Naval Surface Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Melissa K. Russell/Released)

(This article originally appeared courtesy U.S. Navy)

By Petter Officer 1st Class Melissa Russell

SAN DIEGO (Feb. 3, 2018) – The littoral combat ship USS Omaha (LCS 12) became the newest member of the Navy’s surface fleet after being placed in commission during a ceremony at San Diego’s downtown Broadway Pier, Feb. 3.

The new Independence variant littoral combat ship is the Navy’s fourth vessel named in honor of the patriotic, hard-working citizens of Omaha, Nebraska for their support of and contributions to the military.

“It is a great honor and privilege to be her commanding officer and to take such a beautiful ship to sea,” said Cmdr. Michael Toth, commanding officer, USS Omaha (LCS 12). “No captain has ever had a harder working, more motivated crew, and I couldn’t be prouder of them.”

Susan “Susie” Buffett, the ship’s sponsor, is a known philanthropist in Omaha, Nebraska and the daughter of Warren Buffett. Susie gave the order for ship’s crew to “man this ship and bring her to life,” signaling 69 Sailors to run aboard the ship and officially begin its life.

As part of bringing the ship to life, one of the crew’s hard working Sailors, Boatswains Mate 2nd Class Jamila Smith, of Brooklyn, New York, broke the ship’s commissioning pennant and the flag of the Secretary of the Navy.

“It was an honor to raise the flags. From the ship I was able to see the crowd turnout and see that everyone is excited to help welcome us into San Diego and help us commission the ship,” said Smith. “We’re thankful for everything that our sponsor and the commissioning committee did for us and we’re happy so many came out to help us pull this off.”

Many attendees said they were honored and deeply moved to be able to bear witness to such a momentous event and time honored naval traditions.

“It made me cry. It was really emotional,” said Bill Grohs whose son-in law Lt. Dustin Crawford is the ship’s combat systems officer. “I’m so proud of Dustin and the rest of the crew. I’m looking forward to seeing what this ship does.”

Omaha, the 11th littoral combat ship and sixth Independence variant, is now homeported in San Diego with fellow littoral combat ships; USS Freedom (LCS 1), USS Independence (LCS 2), USS Fort Worth (LCS 3), USS Coronado (LCS 4), USS Jackson (LCS 6), USS Montgomery (LCS 8), and USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10). Three additional LCS are homeported in Mayport, Florida.

LCS is a high speed, agile, shallow draft, mission-focused surface combatant designed for operations in the littoral environment, yet fully capable of open ocean operations. As part of the surface fleet, LCS has the ability to counter and outpace evolving threats independently or within a network of surface combatants. Paired with advanced sonar and mine hunting capabilities, LCS provides a major contribution, as well as a more diverse set of options to commanders, across the spectrum of operations.

The LCS-class consists of the Freedom-variant and Independence-variant, designed and built by two industry teams. The Freedom-variant team is led by Lockheed Martin (for the odd-numbered ships, e.g. LCS 1). The Independence-variant team is led by Austal USA (for LCS 6 and follow-on even-numbered ships). Twenty-nine LCS ships have been awarded to date: 11 have been delivered to the Navy, 15 are in various stages of construction and three are in pre-production states.

USS Little Rock (LCS-9) commissioning ceremony in Buffalo, N.Y. on Dec. 16, 2017. (US Navy Photo)

(This article originally appeared courtesy of USNI)

By Ben Werner

A commissioning ceremony was held in Buffalo, N.Y. today for USS Little Rock (LCS-9), the latest Freedom-class Littoral Combat Ship.

The ceremony was held next to the museum ship, the decommissioned USS Little Rock (CG-4), a World War II-era Cleveland-class light cruiser that was converted to a guided-missile destroyer.

Little Rock is the tenth littoral combat ship to enter the fleet and the fifth of the Freedom-class LCS variant, according to the service.

Both Independence-class builders Austal USA and Freedom’s Lockheed Martin are working on 13 more ships in various stages of production, and three in preproduction. Contracts for 29 littoral combat ships have been expected, and three more could be purchased, according to analysis by the Congressional Research Service.

The littoral combat ship is a modular, reconfigurable ship with three types of mission packages. Ships such as Little Rock can conduct surface warfare, mine countermeasures, and anti-submarine warfare operations.

Footage of Little Rock on Friday showed a ship covered in snow, pier side in an ice-covered Lake Erie. The Buffalo- area received between 2 and 4 inches of snow on Friday.

But then winter snow in Buffalo is nothing new. Last Sunday, the Buffalo Bills hosted the Indianapolis Colts in nearby Orchard Park, in a game played in near white-out conditions. According to the Buffalo Bills, 8 inches of snow accumulated in the stadium during the game between noon and 4 p.m.

NORFOLK (Oct. 7, 2017) Sailors render a salute during the commissioning ceremony for the Virginia Class Submarine USS Washington (SSN 787) at Naval Station Norfolk. Washington is the U.S. Navy’s 14th Virginia-class attack submarine and the fourth U.S. Navy ship named for the State of Washington. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua M. Tolbert/Released)

(Article appears courtesy of Navy.mil)

NORFOLK, Virginia (NNS) — The Navy with assistance from the submarine’s sponsor Elisabeth Mabus, daughter of the 75th Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, commissioned and brought to life the newest Virginia class submarine, USS Washington (SSN 787), during a ceremony on board Naval Station Norfolk, Oct. 7.

Washington, named in honor of the 42nd state, is the 14th Virginia-class, fast-attack submarine to join the Navy’s operational fleet. Elisabeth Mabus expressed how proud she was of the crew and their families.

“I know, though you are all eager to set out on the Washington, this like all naval service will requires you to be away from your families for long stretches, so thank you to the families” said Mabus. “In a very real sense you are plank owners of this ship as well.”

Mabus gave the order to “man our ship and bring her to life” before the crew of about 130 men ran across the brow, onto the vessel.

Washington is the fourth of eight Block III Virginia-class submarines to be built. The Block III submarines are built with new Virginia Payload Tubes designed to lower costs and increase missile-firing payload possibilities. The first 10 Block I and Block II Virginia class submarines have 12 individual 21-inch diameter vertical launch tubes able to fire Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles (TLAMS). The Block III submarines are built with two-larger 87-inch diameter tubes able to house six TLAMS each.

“We won’t know what challenges we will face as a nation in 10, 15 or 20 years, but we know because of the work being done now at Newport News and Electric Boat and by the Sailors who call this ship home, USS Washington will be prepared for whatever is to come,” said Mabus.

USS Washington commanding officer, Cmdr. Gabriel Cavazos, highlighted the Washington’s capability to dominate the undersea domain and enable military success in any engagement.

“As I have told the crew on many occasions, they are the most important component of the ship. They give the ship its personality and warfighting spirit. Without the crew, Washington would not be the warfighting platform she was built to be; however, combine the two, and, together, we are the Blackfish,” said Cavazos.

Today USS Washington is alive and stands ready for mission.

“Thank you for being here to celebrate this momentous occasion with us,” said Cavazos.

Washington is the fourth U.S. Navy ship, and first submarine, to be named honoring the State of Washington. The previous three ships were an armored cruiser, (ACR 11), which served from 1905 to 1916, the battleship (BB 47) a Colorado-class battleship launched in 1921 and sunk as a gunnery target in 1924 after her construction was halted, and the battleship (BB 56) credited with sinking more enemy tonnage than any other U.S. Navy battleship during World War II, serving from 1941 to 1947.

Washington is a flexible, multi-mission platform designed to carry out the seven core competencies of the submarine force: anti-submarine warfare; anti-surface warfare; delivery of special operations forces; strike warfare; irregular warfare; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; and mine warfare. Their inherent stealth, endurance, mobility, and firepower directly enable them to support five of the six maritime strategy core capabilities: sea control, power projection, forward presence, maritime security and deterrence.

The submarine is 377 feet long, has a 34-foot beam, and will be able to dive to depths greater than 800 feet and operate at speeds in excess of 25 knots submerged. It will operate for over 30 years without ever refueling.

Construction on Washington began September 2011; the submarine’s keel was authenticated during a ceremony on Nov. 22, 2014; and the submarine was christened during a ceremony March 5, 2016.

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COMMISSIONING CEREMONY

https://www.youtube.com/embed/ewOyWe0Vq6M

SAN DIEGO (July 29, 2017) The crew of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115) mans the ship during its commissioning ceremony at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego, Calif. Rafael Peralta honors Marine Corps Sgt. Rafael Peralta, who was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for actions during Operation Iraqi Freedom. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zackary Alan Landers/Released)

(This article originally appeared courtesy of U.S. Navy/Phil Ladoucuer, Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class)

The Navy’s newest Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115) was commissioned in a ceremony at Naval Air Station North Island, July 29.

The ship is named in honor of Navy Cross recipient Marine Corp Sgt. Rafael Peralta. During the second battle of Fallujah, he smothered a grenade with his body, absorbing the majority of the blast. He was killed instantly, but saved the lives of his fellow Marines.

The Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Robert B. Neller, gave the principal address. In his remarks, he thanked the family of Rafael Peralta, in particular his mother, Rosa Maria Peralta.

“Thank you for raising a man of character and virtue,” he said. “We need more people like him in our world.”

Neller said that a ship required three things: A hull, a name, and a crew.

“And when you put those three things together, you create more than just a ship; it’s a lifeform,” he said. “This is more than just another commissioning. It marks the commemoration of a life and the immortality of a hero. Sergeant Peralta’s legacy will forever be part of this ship. All he ever wanted to be was an American, to serve his country.”

Vice Adm. Nora Tyson, commander, Third Fleet, stepped up to the podium with the ship’s commanding officer, Cmdr. Brian Ribota and placed the ship in commission.

“On behalf of the Secretary of the Navy and for the President of the United States, I hereby place United States Ship Rafael Peralta in commission,” she said. “May God bless and guide this warship and all who shall sail in her.”

Rosa Maria Peralta, mother of Sgt. Peralta, is the ship’s sponsor. Her sponsorship duties saw her christen the ship in Bath, Maine and during the commissioning ceremony, she gave the order to the ship’s crew to bring the ship to life, first in Spanish and then in English:

“Officers and crew of USS Rafael Peralta, man our ship and bring her to life!”

The crew enthusiastically replied from its formation on the pier.

“Aye, aye ma’am!” they yelled, and sprinted aboard the ship as the Navy Band Southwest played Anchors Aweigh, followed by a flyover by two U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Ospreys.

Commander Ribota thanked the guests for attending the ceremony. He then reminded everyone of another constant presence.

“One last person who is here for us today, just three miles away, on Fort Rosencrantz, where he is buried,” he said. “Sgt. Rafael Peralta has the over watch and always will. We will always render honors as we come in and out of port here in San Diego.”

Ribota also recognized the hard work and determination displayed by his crew – the men and women who made this special day possible.

“In less than three months after moving aboard, they flawlessly sailed this 9,200-ton greyhound over 6,000 miles to get here to San Diego,” he said. “We have all come a long way in a very short time.”

Peralta was born on April 7, 1979 in Mexico City, Mexico. The son of Rafael and Rosa Peralta, he was the oldest of four children. Immigrating to the United States with his family as a teenager, he graduated from Morse High School in San Diego, California in1997. He joined the United States Marine Corps in 2000, immediately after qualifying for a green card. He became an American citizen while serving in the Corps.

Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Rafael Peralta is a multi-mission surface combatant capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and anti-surface warfare. As a multi-mission platform, it is capable of sustained combat operations supporting forward presence, maritime security, sea control and deterrence.

NORFOLK (July 22, 2017) Sailors man the rails of the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) during its commissioning ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Va. Ford is the lead ship of the Ford-class aircraft carriers, and the first new U.S. aircraft carrier designed in 40 years. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrew J. Sneeringer/Released)

(This article originally appeared on Navy.mil)

By Ens. Corey Todd Jones

NORFOLK (NNS) — President Donald J. Trump commissioned the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) at a commissioning ceremony July 22.

A commissioning is a day of celebration, and honors the dedication, team work, and collaboration of Sailors, legislators, shipbuilders, program managers, and the ship’s sponsor in delivering the ship to the fleet.

Trump landed on the flight deck in Marine One and was greeted by Secretary of Defense James Mattis, Acting Secretary of the Navy Sean Stackley, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson, and USS Gerald R. Ford Commanding Officer Capt. Rick McCormack.
Over 10,000 friends and family members attended the event, watching the festivities from the hangar bay, the pier and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69).

Distinguished members of the party offered remarks to honor the occasion.

“Wherever this vessel cuts through the horizon, our allies will rest easy and our enemies will shake with fear because everyone will know that America is coming and America is coming strong,” said Trump. “Our true strength is our people. Our greatest weapon is all of you. Our nation endures because we have citizens who love America and who are willing to fight for America.”

He continued, “We are so very blessed with warriors who are willing to serve America in the greatest fighting force in history, the United States military. Today this ship officially begins its role in the noble military history of our great nation.”

Stackley also addressed the crowd.

“So skipper, as we marvel at the technology and the daunting numbers that measure this ship, never lose sight that in times of crisis, you will be the first to respond, and when called upon, you will deliver the final word in the bidding of our nation,” said Stackley. “Whenever you sail, wherever you sail, you will be a symbol of Unites States resolve and you will be a symbol of the man whose name you bear.”

After the ship’s sponsor and President Ford’s daughter Susan Ford Bales gave the traditional command to “Man our ship and bring her to life,” Ford Sailors ran up the brows and manned the rails as the band played “Anchor’s Aweigh.”

McCormack expressed his pride in the work his crew has done to get the ship ready to serve in the fleet.

“The Sailors aboard today are among our nation’s finest,” said McCormack. “They are talented, driven, innovative, dedicated, and passionate about what they do and I am very proud to be their commanding officer. Team Wolverine, I have the utmost faith and confidence in your abilities to handle any challenge ahead, and I can think of no better team to take this ship to sea.”

After the ceremony, the ship was opened to the general public for tours, which included the flight deck, the commanding officer’s in-port cabin, pilot house, mess decks, fo’c’sle, and the newly opened tribute room.

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is the lead ship in the Ford-class of aircraft carrier, the first new class in more than 40 years, and will begin the phased replacement of Nimitz-class carriers.

CVN-78 honors the 38th president of the United States and pays tribute to his lifetime of service in the Navy, in the U.S. government and to the nation. During World War II Ford attained the rank of lieutenant commander in the Navy, serving on the light carrier USS Monterey (CVL 26). Ford became president in the aftermath of the Watergate scandal and served in the country’s highest office from 1974-1977.

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View the Commissioning Ceremony:

https://www.youtube.com/embed/8dDIr1ng9lU

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)

(This article originally appeared courtesy of U.S. Navy/Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jeff Troutman, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West Det. Hawaii)

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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“We believe in peace through strength – smart power backed by hard power,” Harris said. “And this ship, hard power personified, sends a clear signal to our allies, to our friends and to our adversaries – we will remain laser focused on the Indo-Asia-Pacific because what happens here matters to the United States.”Approximately 2,000 guests, including more than 50 friends and relatives of John Finn’s family, attended the commissioning ceremony.The ship was officially placed in commission by Harris. Its Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Micheal Wagner, a native of Minnesota, leads the crew of 300 officers and enlisted personnel and praised his crew as worthy of the standard set forth by the ship’s namesake.“I’m truly honored and humbled to be standing here today, not only because I’m in command of the Navy’s newest destroyer, but because I’ve been given the opportunity to lead some of the finest Sailors I’ve ever met,” said Wagner. “The men and women manning this ship today are some of the finest service members society has to offer today. They come from all over the United States. Some even come from different countries. But make no mistake, they are all willing and enthusiastic about completing the mission. These are men and women of action, ready to go into action if required, just like John Finn exhibited.”The ship’s sponsor, Laura Stavridis, the wife of retired Adm. James Stavridis, gave the order to, “man our ship and bring her to life!”The crowd then witnessed this time-honored tradition, as members of the crew ran aboard the ship and manned the rails, as the ship’s systems came online – radars and weapon systems began to spin, the chaff launcher popped, and alarms sounded – all symbolizing the ship “coming to life.”John Finn is a multi-mission surface combatant capable of conducting anti-air warfare, anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface warfare. As a multi-mission platform, it is capable of sustained combat operations supporting forward presence, maritime security, sea control and deterrence.

Sailors assigned to the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Milwaukee (LCS 5) man the ship during the commissioning ceremony in snowy Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Nov. 21. Milwaukee will proceed to her homeport in San Diego in next year. Photo credit: Lockheed Martin.

Article originally appeared on the Lockheed Martin website

MILWAUKEE, Wis., Nov. 21, 2015 – The U.S. Navy commissioned the nation’s fifth Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) – USS Milwaukee (LCS 5) – in Milwaukee today, officially placing the ship designed and constructed by a Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT)-led industry team into active service.

Milwaukee, the third Freedom-variant in the LCS class, successfully passed Acceptance Trials in September and was delivered to the U.S. Navy on October 16.

“The USS Milwaukee is a warship with capabilities unlike any others,” said Stephanie C. Hill, vice president of Ship & Aviation Systems for Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Training business. “The entire Lockheed Martin-led LCS industry team is proud to deliver USS Milwaukee to the crew who will bring this great ship to life to participate in the defense of our great nation.”

The fifth U.S. Navy vessel bearing the name, Milwaukee will transit to its homeport in San Diego, California, where it will be integrated into the fleet and the industry-Navy team will conduct additional program testing and crew training.

The Lockheed Martin-led industry team, which includes shipbuilder Fincantieri Marinette Marine and naval architect Gibbs & Cox, has already delivered two Freedom-variant littoral combat ships to the U.S. Navy. USS Freedom conducted a successful deployment to Southeast Asia in 2013 and is currently operating out of her homeport in San Diego. USS Fort Worth is currently deployed in Southeast Asia, serving in the U.S. 7th Fleet.

Detroit (LCS 7) is scheduled to be delivered in early 2016. Sioux City (LCS 11), Wichita (LCS 13), Billings (LCS 15), and Indianapolis (LCS 17) are in construction. St. Louis (LCS 19) and Minneapolis/St. Paul (LCS 21) are in long-lead material procurement.

The commissioning is the final act that marks entrance of a ship into the naval forces of her nation. It is the final of three events that bring a ship to life: keel laying, launching and christening, and commissioning.

About Lockheed Martin
Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that – with the addition of Sikorsky – employs approximately 126,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.

About Fincantieri Marinette Marine
Founded in 1942, Fincantieri Marinette Marine (FMM) is located on the Menominee River flowage into Green Bay. The largest shipyard in Wisconsin and the Midwest, FMM has delivered more than 1,300 vessels for the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, and commercial customers, including the technologically advanced Littoral Combat Ship Freedom class for the U.S. Navy. In 2008, FMM along with several sister shipyards also based in the Great Lakes region, became part of FINCANTIERI, the largest shipbuilder in the western Hemisphere and the fourth largest in the world. FINCANTIERI operates in the United States through its subsidiary Fincantieri Marine Group, serving both civilian and government customers. Over the past five years, FINCANTIERI invested more than $100 million in both capital infrastructure and its resources to support FMM’s transformation into what is now one of the best shipyards in the United States. Employing approximately 1,500 employees, today FMM is a state-of-the-art, full service new construction shipyard.

About Gibbs & Cox
Gibbs & Cox, the nation’s leading independent maritime solutions firm specializing in naval architecture, marine engineering and design, is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. The company, founded in 1929, has provided designs for nearly 80 percent of the current U.S. Navy surface combatant fleet; approaching 7,000 naval and commercial ships have been built to Gibbs & Cox designs.

151205-N-AC887-003
GULFPORT, Miss. (Dec 5 , 2015) Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus delivers remarks during the christening ceremony for the Navy’s newest Independence-variant littoral combat ship, USS Jackson (LCS 6), in Gulfport, Miss. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Sam Shavers/Released)

Original article courtesy of Navy.mil

By MC2 Kathleen L. Church

GULFPORT, Miss. (NNS) — The crew of USS Jackson (LCS 6) ushered in a new era in naval warfare, Dec. 5, as the ship was brought to life before a crowd of nearly 10,000.

“I hereby place United States Ship Jackson in commission. May God bless and guide this warship and all who sail in it,” said Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, who helped name the ship in 2011. “This certainly ranks right up there with great days that I’ve had.”

Mississippi Senator Thad Cochran’s daughter, Dr. Kate Cochran, was the ship’s sponsor. It’s the first ship to bear the name of Mississippi’s capital city. The name held a special meaning for many of those at the commissioning.

“For it to be named after the city, the capital of the state in which you were born, is even more of a phenomenal feeling,” said Command Senior Chief Ken Ballard.

Ballard and 52 other crewmembers will man missions aboard the Jackson, one of the fastest and most technologically advanced warships in the world.

“They’re providing incredible presence. They’re providing lethality. They’re providing a lot of things that the United States Navy needs today and is going to need for years in the future,” said Mabus.

For the crew, the commissioning was the culmination of three years of hard work.

A fast, agile, and high-technology surface combatant, Jackson will act as a platform for launch and recovery of manned and unmanned vehicles. Its modular design will support interchangeable mission packages, allowing the ship to be reconfigured for antisubmarine warfare, mine warfare, or surface warfare missions on an as-needed basis.

The littoral combat ship (LCS) will be able to swap out mission packages, adapting as the tactical situation demands. These ships will also feature advanced networking capability to share tactical information with other Navy aircraft, ships, submarines and joint units.

The brand new 417 foot ship weighs in at 3,100 tons. It can travel at speeds in excess of 40 knots. The USS Jackson will be home ported at Naval Base San Diego.

USS John Warner is “brought to life” by the ship sponsor during a commissioning ceremony held at Naval Station Norfolk this past Saturday (Photo by Todd Creekman/NHF/Released)

Original post taken from the Naval Historical Foundation

The newest addition to the U.S. Navy’s submarine fleet is a formidable one. At 377 feet in length, the newest Virginia-class submarine gives the kind of multi-mission flexibility necessary for a strong and adaptable submarine force operating in today’s dangerous waters around the world. For good reason, the U.S. Navy officially heralds it as “the most modern and sophisticated attack submarine world.” As a testament to this, the ship is projected to operate for thirty-three years without stopping to refuel. That particular characteristic sounds strikingly similar to the ship’s namesake, Senator John Warner – a man who never seemed to stop serving his country. This past weekend, thousands came to Norfolk, VA to honor the former Senator, Navy Sailor, and Marine for the commissioning of USS John Warner (SSN 785). It is the first submarine of the Virginia-class to be named for an individual. The Navy’s next ship to break the mold, USS Hyman G. Rickover (SSN 795), was recently announced here at the Washington Navy Yard in January.

NHF staff members were on hand on Friday night for a special Chairman’s Reception at the picturesque Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center in Downtown Norfolk. The event, sponsored by the Navy League of Hampton Roads Commissioning Committee, centered around the ship’s namesake and his wife and ship sponsor, Mrs. Jeanne Warner. During the course of the evening on Friday, several awards, plaques, commemorative photographs, and paintings were given to the men and women involved in the construction and operation of John Warner. All on hand were delighted to honor a man whose service and sacrifice dated back to the Second World War.

It was also a special evening for the Naval Historical Foundation. Captain Creekman, USN (Ret.), NHF Executive Director, had the distinct pleasure of presenting the former Senator with an authentic 1975 Navy Jack to be signed and hoisted during the commissioning ceremonies the following day.

1975 Navy Jack signed by Holloway, Greenert, Mabus, DeMars, Richardson, and Middendorf (Photo by NHF/Matthew Eng/Released)

The Navy Jack presented to Senator Warner to sign was undoubtedly unique. Warner’s signature was the last of a series of signatures by individuals whose connection to the Navy was either current or directly related to Warner’s time as SECNAV and Virginia state Senator. From (L) to (R), the signatures are as follows:

• Admiral James L. Holloway III, Chief of Naval Operations (1974-1978)
• Jonathan W. Greenert, 30th and current CNO
• Ray Mabus, 75th and current Secretary of the Navy
• Bruce DeMars, Director, Naval Reactors (1988-1996)
• John M. Richardson, current Director, Navy Reactors and nominated to become the next CNO
• J. Wiliam Middendorf II, 62nd Secretary of Navy (1974-1977)

While Warner was the Secretary of the Navy, he authorized then Under Secretary of the Navy J. William Middendorf II to design a Navy Jack to mark the 1975 bicentennial of the United States. The result was the current Navy Jack (better known as the “First Navy Jack”), which, after the 1975-76 Navy and national bicentennial, is now flown on every U.S. Navy ship since 2002.

After the Senator’s signature, the flag was turned over to Commander D.B. Caldwell, Commanding Officer of USS John Warner, to be hoisted at the bow of SSN 785 during the commissioning ceremony the following day.

The Saturday commissioning ceremony was hot and humid. Thousands of friends, family, and general public braved the heat to witness Senator Warner’s namesake proceed “on a mission to defend freedom.”

Some speakers took time to reflect on the former Senator’s time in the US Senate, while others highlighted his short but influential time in the military. The keynote speaker, current CNO Admiral Jonathan Greenert, praised the Navy’s newest piece of advanced weaponry, calling her “the latest incarnation of American sea power” and a “strategic asset for this country.” Warner himself wanted to be brief, but managed to wax philosophical to the crew of the ship, giving them a stern command for such a vessel that bears his name:

“Defend the sea lanes of the world which are the very arteries of international commerce. Manned by our submarines, our surface ships, and naval aircraft, we are carefully working to keep those sea lanes open – not just for us but for all.”

Just before the ship was customarily “brought to life” by the ship’s sponsor, the signed Jack was hoisted on the bow of the vessel for the excited crowd to view, as the ship was formally placed in commission by the CNO.

USS John Warner will join Submarine Squadron 6 (COMSUBRON Six) with other Virginia-class submarines and Los Angeles-class submarines. The submarine was delivered both under budget and ahead of schedule. It’s homeport will be in Norfolk, VA.

Fair Winds and Following Seas on your missions.

"

141025-N-WL435-378 GROTON, Conn. (Oct. 25, 2014) Sailors assigned to the Virginia-class attack submarine USS North Dakota (SSN 784) bring the ship to life during the boat’s commissioning ceremony. North Dakota is the 11th Virginia-class submarine. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Peter D. Lawlor/Released)

By Kevin Copeland, Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic Public Affairs

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) — USS North Dakota (SSN 784) officially became the Navy’s newest addition to the submarine force following a commissioning ceremony held Oct. 25, at Naval Submarine Base New London.

North Dakota is the 11th Virginia-class attack submarine to join the fleet, and the first of eight Block III Virginia-class submarines to be built. The Block III submarines are being built with new Virginia Payload Tubes designed to lower costs and increase missile-firing payload possibilities.

The 10 current Virginia-class submarines have 12 individual 21-inch diameter vertical launch tubes able to fire Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles (TLAMS). The Block III submarines being built will have two-larger 87-inch diameter tubes able to house six TLAMS each.

Adm. Jonathan Greenert, the 30th Chief of Naval Operations, was the ceremony’s keynote speaker. He enthusiastically welcomed North Dakota to the fleet and reminded the crew of the important role they will play in protecting the nation’s security while executing his standing operating orders of: Warfighting First, Operate Forward and Be Ready.

“It is with great pride that I welcome USS North Dakota to the fleet,” said Greenert. “May God bless and guide this warship and all who shall sail on her. I congratulate all whose hard work and dedication brought this magnificent warship to life. On behalf of the Secretary of the Navy and for the President of the United States, I hereby place USS North Dakota in commission.”

Hundreds of citizens from North Dakota, including the governor and senators, attended the commissioning ceremony.

“Today was a historic day for the people of North Dakota,” said North Dakota Gov. Jack Dalrymple. “We celebrated the commissioning of this majestic submarine just days before we mark the 125th anniversary of our statehood. We are proud and honored to have this grand ship bear the name, spirit and heritage of our great state.”

As the most modern and sophisticated attack submarine in the world, the submarine can operate in both littoral and deep ocean environments and presents combatant commanders with a broad and unique range of operational capabilities. North Dakota will be a flexible, multi-mission platform designed to carry out the seven core competencies of the submarine force: anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, delivery of special operations forces, strike warfare, irregular warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance and mine warfare.

“From the Arabian Sea to the Polar Ice cap, North Dakota will operate undetected in the harshest environments on the planet as her crew protects the freedom of the seas and the interests of the United States,” said Vice Adm. Michael Connor, Commander, Submarine Forces. “Leaders around the world around the world continue to ask for more American submarine presence, because they realize that there are some very important things that must be done that only submarines can do. To the crew of North Dakota, you have done a fantastic job in bringing this ship to life. Now it time to shift your focus to global operations and get ready to meet your new responsibilities on patrol far from home.”

The submarine is 377 feet long, has a 34-foot beam, and will be able to dive to depths greater than 800 feet and operate at speeds in excess of 25 knots submerged. It will operate for 33 years without ever refueling.

Capt. Douglas Gordon is North Dakota’s first commanding officer. He leads a crew of about 136 officers and enlisted personnel. While born in Indianapolis, Indiana, he refers to Carrollton, Georgia, as home. He enlisted in the Navy and attended Nuclear Power School prior to being released from active duty to attend Auburn University on an NROTC scholarship. Gordon graduated from Auburn University in 1991 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering.

“The crew has been looking forward to commissioning from day one of their arrival,” said Gordon. “Since we first began manning the ship in October 2011 our crew has progressed through numerous milestones which has culminated in our commissioning,’ said Gordon. “For the first time the ship got underway for sea trials in August, and this sea time permitted the crew their first opportunity to finally see how their hard work and preparation had paid off,”

“I know they are all as thrilled as I am in commissioning North Dakota, joining the fleet and eventually deploying,” said Gordon. “We will operate the ship at sea over the next nine months or so while conducting training, trials, certifications, and testing. Following a post-shakedown availability, the North Dakota will begin a normal operations cycle for working towards its first deployment.”

Ironically the only native North Dakotan assigned to the submarine is the ship’s senior enlisted advisor or chief of the boat, Master Chief Electronics Technician (Submarines/Diver) Timothy Preabt.

He grew up in Williston, N.D., but moved to Mandan, N.D., and graduated from Mandan High School in 1989.

“As a native of North Dakota and the only member of the crew from North Dakota, it is a great honor and privilege to be part of the North Dakota,” said Preabt. “The outreach of support received from the great people at home has been overwhelming. North Dakota was a great place to grow up and I have always been proud of my home state, but nothing made me more prouder to see the individual pride that the people of North Dakota have for their ship,”

“The crew of North Dakota has worked together ensuring we were ready to operate the Navy’s newest Virginia-class submarine. Taking this fine warship to sea and operating it was a testament for their hard work, training and preparation during the last three years'” said Preabt. “The USS North Dakota will always be a great submarine because she started out that way – thanks to the Sailors that brought her to life!”

Katie Fowler, wife of retired Vice Adm. Jeffrey L. “Jeff” Fowler, a native of Bismarck, N.D., serves as the submarine’s sponsor. She broke the traditional champagne bottle against the boat’s sail during the christening ceremony in November 2013.

Virginia-class submarines are built under a unique teaming arrangement between General Dynamics Electric Boat in Groton, Conn., and Huntington Ingalls Industries in Newport News, Virginia.

Construction on North Dakota began March 2009; the submarine’s keel was authenticated during a ceremony on May 11, 2012; and the submarine was christened during a ceremony Nov. 2, 2013.

North Dakota is the second Navy ship, and first submarine, to be named in honor of the people of “The Peace Garden State.” The other ship was the Delaware-class battleship BB-29, which was commissioned April 11, 1910 and decommissioned Nov. 22, 1923.