U.S. Navy Commissions Final Independence-Variant Warship USS Pierre In Florida

The U.S. Navy has commissioned the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Pierre (LCS 38) in a ceremony held on 15 November in Panama City, Florida, marking the arrival of the 19th and final ship of this class into active service.

During the event, Secretary of the Navy John Phelan acknowledged the technological progress represented by the Independence-variant design and expressed appreciation for the leadership and crew who brought the ship into commissioned service. He described it as an important day, stating that it was an honour to place the final ship of the variant into commission.

The ship’s sponsor, Larissa Thune Hargens, daughter of U.S. Senator John Thune, gave the traditional command to “man our ship and bring her to life,” after which the crew ran aboard and responded in unison.

She said the day represented pride and connection between the ship, its crew, the city of Pierre and the country. She also shared that her connection to the Navy began with her grandfather, who served as a fighter pilot in the Second World War.

In the days before the ceremony, the crew of USS Pierre engaged with the local community, conducted ship tours for various organisations, and strengthened ties with the city hosting the commissioning.

Cmdr. Justin Guernsey, commanding officer of USS Pierre, told those present that many had travelled long distances to witness the commissioning of a ship representing the nation’s independent spirit and commitment to defending its values.

He said the crew had become closely familiar with the ship’s performance and capabilities over recent months and encouraged them to carry the nation’s colours forward as the vessel enters service.

Several officials attended the ceremony, including Sen. John Thune, Sen. Ashley Moody, Rep. Neal Dunn, Rear Adm. Jeff Jurgemeyer, the mayors of Pierre and Panama City, and Austal USA President Michelle Kruger. The event was hosted by Lt. Cmdr. Audrey Munji, the ship’s executive officer.

The ceremony concluded with Cmdr. Guernsey beginning the ship’s motto, “On the move!”, which the crew completed with the response, “On the hunt!”

The Independence-variant littoral combat ships are designed for fast, mission-tailored operations in coastal and open-ocean environments. The class supports missions including maritime security, forward presence, deterrence, sea control, and integration with joint, combined, and unmanned teams worldwide.

Reference: US Navy

Source: Maritime Shipping News