The U.S. Navy is set to christen the future USS Louis H. Wilson Jr. (DDG 126) on Saturday, September 27, at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works in Maine. The ceremony will begin at 10:30 a.m. Eastern Time.
The event will feature a principal address by General Eric Smith, Commandant of the Marine Corps. Other speakers include Maine Governor Janet Mills, U.S. Senator Angus King, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development, and Acquisition Jason Potter, Vice Admiral Brad Skillman, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Integration of Capabilities and Resources; Medal of Honor recipient Colonel Harvey C. Barnum Jr.; and Chuck Krugh, President of General Dynamics Bath Iron Works.
In keeping with tradition, ship sponsors Janet Wilson Taylor—daughter of the ship’s namesake—and Susan J. Rabern, former Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Financial Management and Comptroller, will christen the vessel by breaking a bottle of sparkling wine across its bow.
The destroyer is named after General Louis Hugh Wilson Jr., who served in World War II and Vietnam and received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Guam. He later became the 26th Commandant of the Marine Corps from 1975 to 1979.
According to information provided by the Navy, “The christening of DDG 126 symbolizes the Navy's 250-year commitment to innovation and maritime dominance. From seabed to space, the Navy delivers power for peace – always ready to fight and win. This milestone marks the Navy's enduring legacy and commitment to shaping the future of maritime power.”
Arleigh Burke-class Flight III destroyers are equipped with advanced technology such as the AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar system. These ships also have improved electrical power and cooling systems that enhance their combat capabilities within naval fleets. Additional destroyers including Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), Patrick Gallagher (DDG 127), William Charette (DDG 130), Quentin Walsh (DDG 132), John E. Kilmer (DDG 134), Richard G. Lugar (DDG 136), and J. William Middendorf (DDG 138) are currently under construction at Bath Iron Works.
Further details about Arleigh Burke-class destroyers can be found on the official Navy website: https://www.navy.mil/Resources/Fact-Files/Display-FactFiles/Article/2169871/destroyers-ddg-51/
Media inquiries can be directed to the Navy Office of Information at (703) 697-5342.
