HII Unveils the USS Jeremiah Denton (DDG 129)
PASCAGOULA, Miss. — HII (NYSE: HII) has embarked on a momentous occasion as the future USS Jeremiah Denton (DDG 129) has been officially christened. This ship marks the third Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyer constructed at the Ingalls Shipbuilding division, showcasing HII's commitment to excellence in naval craftsmanship.
Honoring a Heroic Legacy
The USS Jeremiah Denton is named after a distinguished individual, former U.S. Senator Jeremiah Denton Jr. His remarkable journey as a Vietnam War veteran and Navy Cross recipient speaks volumes about his courage and resilience. Denton's 34-year tenure as a naval aviator, including eight harrowing years as a prisoner of war, has become a cornerstone of American valor. During a televised broadcast as a captive, he ingeniously used Morse code to convey the word "torture," an act that underscored his indomitable spirit.
A Joint Mission Celebrated
At the christening event, Ingalls Shipbuilding President Brian Blanchette emphasized the significance of the occasion, stating, "Today, we honor the skilled work of our Ingalls shipbuilders alongside the enduring spirit of Adm. Jeremiah Denton." With each ship christened, HII celebrates a collective mission with its Navy partners, reinforcing a commitment to the nation's security and the global community.
Keynote Address Highlights
The keynote speaker, Acting Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research Development and Acquisition Brett Seidle, delivered insights on the critical role of naval vessels. Celebrating the legacies etched in the namesake of the ship, he acknowledged the shipbuilding workforce as an invaluable national asset.
A Testament to America’s Resolve
Seidle remarked on the deeper meaning behind the christening, stating, "The future USS Jeremiah Denton will sail as a reminder to the world that the United States does not back down or break under pressure, and we do not forget our heroes". This sentiment embodies the military's dedication to honoring those who served heroically.
The Bottle-Breaking Ceremony
During the traditional bottle-breaking ceremony, the co-sponsors and daughters of the ship's namesake, Madeleine Denton Doak and Mary Denton Lewis, officially named the ship. Their heartfelt remarks honored their late parents, who hailed from Alabama, seamlessly connecting their family legacy to the ship and its future.
The Future of Naval Technology
The Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyers signify a leap forward in naval capabilities. Enhancements like the AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar and the advanced Aegis Baseline 10 Combat System enable these ships to meet emerging global threats. HII’s commitment to modern naval architecture ensures that the Jeremiah Denton will play a vital role in maintaining maritime security well into the future.
Commitment to Shipbuilding Excellence
The Gauntlet of shipbuilding is well within HII’s reach; with 35 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers already delivered to the U.S. Navy and five Flight IIIs currently under construction, including Ted Stevens (DDG 128) and George M. Neal (DDG 131), HII is truly at the forefront of military shipbuilding.
About HII
HII stands as a premier global defense provider, dedicated to delivering remarkable ships and all-domain solutions to secure freedom. With a rich history spanning over 135 years, HII is synonymous with quality and innovation in protecting national security interests.
Boasting a workforce of 44,000, HII is the largest military shipbuilder in the nation, specializing in a plethora of capabilities — from cutting-edge unmanned systems to advancements in cyber, ISR, and AI/ML. Headquartered in Virginia, HII continues to lead in the defense sector, ensuring the safety of freedom worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the USS Jeremiah Denton (DDG 129)?
The USS Jeremiah Denton is named after a Vietnam War hero and former U.S. senator, honoring his exemplary courage and significance in history.
What advancements does the Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyer feature?
This class integrates state-of-the-art radar systems and combat technology, enhancing capabilities to tackle future threats effectively.
Who were the co-sponsors of the USS Jeremiah Denton?
The co-sponsors were the daughters of Adm. Jeremiah Denton, Madeleine Denton Doak and Mary Denton Lewis, who performed the christening ceremony.
How many Arleigh Burke-class destroyers has HII delivered?
HII has successfully delivered 35 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers to the U.S. Navy, showcasing their expertise in shipbuilding.
What role does HII play in military shipbuilding?
As the largest military shipbuilder in the U.S., HII is instrumental in advancing national security through innovative ship designs and construction.
