MARINETTE, WI- A momentous occasion is on the horizon as the latest Littoral Combat Ship (LCS-25), the USS Marinette, nears its commissioning after a series of significant milestones. Launched amid fanfare in October 2020 and christened with great ceremony in November 2021.
Shawn Katzbeck, Director of Tourism and Marketing for the City of Marinette says this is different than a christening. “With that you launch the ship into the water, pound the bottle of champagne and away you go,” he said. “This is different, this is literally breathing life into that ship.”
Docked across the Menominee River from where it was crafted in Marinette, the USS Marinette boasts impressive dimensions, stretching approximately 386 feet in length and measuring nearly 60 feet in width. What makes this commissioning particularly special is the vessel’s name, as it is only the third U.S. naval ship to be named in honor of the city where it was built.
“Only one other time has a ship been made, christened and then commissioned in the same area, “said Katzbeck.
As the USS Marinette prepares to embark on its journey, it carries with it not just the legacy of naval excellence but also a profound connection to its place of origin. Having been meticulously crafted in the heart of the Upper Midwest, this naval masterpiece is set to find its home port in Mayport, Florida, nestled in the vibrant Jacksonville area.
The anticipation is palpable as the dedicated captain and crew prepare to step on board and commence the next chapter in this ship’s illustrious history. Their mission carries with it a profound tribute to the community that watched with pride as this maritime marvel was brought to life.
“All of the radar and all of the lights turn on, and basically the ship is brought to life, kind of like when you get the keys to a new car and you take it out on the highway, press on the gas, roll down the windows and turn on the radio.
The commissioning of the USS Marinette serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts and unwavering commitment of all those involved in its creation. As it prepares to embark on its naval journey, this remarkable vessel stands not only as a symbol of military prowess but also as a living testament to the ingenuity and dedication of those who built it.
The commissioning ceremony promises to be a momentous occasion, one that celebrates both maritime excellence and the enduring connection between a ship and the community that proudly birthed it. The USS Marinette is poised to make history, and its name will forever be etched in history.
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