U.S. Navy Commissions Advanced Destroyer USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. At Norfolk

The United States Navy has commissioned its new Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), during a ceremony held at Naval Station Norfolk on Saturday.

Around 1,800 people attended the event, including senior military leaders, sailors, marines, veterans and family members.

US Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan was the main speaker at the ceremony. He was joined by Vice Chief of Naval Operations James W. Kilby and Commandant of the Marine Corps Eric M. Smith.

During the ceremony, Phelan said the ship is not just symbolic but adds real combat capability to the fleet. He also said the vessel is part of efforts to build a stronger and more capable Navy for the future.

Admiral Kilby said ships like USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. are important for defending the country and deterring threats. General Smith spoke about the legacy of the ship’s namesake and said the crew will carry forward that standard in their service.

The ship is named after Harvey C. Barnum Jr., a Vietnam War veteran and Medal of Honor recipient. It is the first US Navy vessel to carry his name.

Barnum was recognised for his actions on 18 December 1965 during operations in Vietnam, where he took command after his superior officer was mortally wounded and led his unit under heavy fire while coordinating attacks and evacuations.

The ceremony followed naval traditions, including music by the United States Marine Band. Sailors manned the rails as the ship was placed into active service.

When the ship’s sponsor, Martha Hill, gave the order to “man our ship and bring her to life,” the crew boarded the vessel as part of the commissioning tradition.

Martha Hill, who is also Barnum’s wife, said the moment marked the transition of the ship from steel into something shaped by the sailors who will serve on it.

Barnum also spoke at the ceremony and said that trust between sailors and marines is what defines their service and how they operate.

Cmdr. Cantu, the ship’s commanding officer, said every sailor on board will be expected to serve with honour and responsibility while carrying forward the name of Barnum.

USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. is designed to handle modern naval operations and is equipped with the Aegis Combat System and other advanced weapons. It can operate in air, surface and subsurface environments.

Arleigh Burke-class destroyers are a key part of the US Navy’s surface fleet. They are used for a range of missions, including maritime security, deterrence and combat operations.

After the ceremony, guests were allowed to board the ship and see its systems and onboard facilities.

Reference: US Navy