Navy Destroyer To Be Named After Inouye
Hanabusa in a press release said she was informed by Navy Secretary Ray Mabus that the next Arleigh Burke Class Destroyer, which will be built at Bath Iron Works in Maine, will be named after Inouye, a veteran and staunch advocate for the military in Congress.
Not to be outdone, Sen. Brian Schatz said he and the rest of the delegation were also informed about the move and praised the decision.
In the dueling press releases, Hanabusa said, “Secretary Mabus informed me that he had tried to name a ship after Senator while he was still alive, and knowing Senator, he wanted no part of it.”
“The Arleigh-Burke Class is considered the strongest, most advanced surface ship in the world, responsible for multiple missions that ensure naval supremacy. This is a fitting tribute to Senator Inouye, whose own strength and determination inspired so many of us. Our navy will be proud to have a ship bearing his name deployed throughout the world, continuing to fight and defend us.”
Schatz said, “The naming of this destroyer appropriately honors his life and dedication to service during Pearl Harbor, World War II, and throughout his 58 years in elected office serving the state of Hawaii. Senator Inouye represents what it means to be a public servant and Hawaii should be proud of this great honor provided by the Navy.”
The ship is expected to be delivered in mid-2018.
Rep. Tulsi Gabbard also praised the decision, saying in her own statement:
“Senator Inouye inspired us all by his lifelong dedication to the service of the people of Hawai‘i and our country. It is only fitting that we honor and memorialize his legacy. For decades to come, the USS Daniel Inouye will bear the name of one of our most distinguished soldiers from our greatest generation and will serve as a constant reminder of Hawai‘i’s own iconic American hero. I thank the U.S. Navy for their recognition of Senator Inouye’s great commitment to our Armed Forces and our country.”
Photo Official U.S. Navy Imagery.
— Kery Murakami
