Announcement by the Secretary of the Navy The Honorable Gordon R. England of naming of USS New York (LPD 21) USS Intrepid Museum, New York, N.Y. September 7, 2002
Governor Pataki, Chairman Young, members of Congress, General Jones, Admiral Natter, Tony Fisher, Bob Ravitz, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, it is a pleasure for me to be here today, my fifth trip to the City of New York since becoming Secretary of the Navy. The naming of a ship is always a very special, exciting and festive time for the Navy and for all people associated with the ship’s name. But today, this is also a solemn occasion because the naming of this great ship grew out of the tragic events of September 11 here in New York City. The tradition within the Naval Service is to name our ships either after great national or military leaders or after heroes who sacrificed for the defense of freedom or after battles fought to secure our liberties or after great American communities that represent the resiliency, vitality and spirit of America. Ships’ names provide a recognizable legacy for the Sailors and Marines who man them and are a source of strength and inspiration. These names are also a reminder to our citizens that for 226 years people before us sacrificed their lives and fortunes to defend freedom and liberty for all peoples throughout the world. It is, therefore, most fitting and appropriate that today we name an LPD the USS New York. Unlike other vessels, the name for this ship meets not just one but all the criteria that we utilize in the naming of our ships. First, it recognizes our great leaders starting with our Commander-in-Chief, President Bush, Governor Pataki, Mayor Guliani, Mayor Bloomberg and all the leaders in New York who emerged after the tragic events of last year. Second, this name memorializes all the heroes of September 11 . . . especially the firemen, policemen and emergency service personnel — and all the victims of September 11 and their families. We must remember the fallen as they would have wanted to be remembered — living in freedom as Americans. I am reminded that this name encapsulates what Mayor Bloomberg said after the attacks, “New York has long been a City of Champions – now the world knows we are a city of heroes.” When our Sailors and Marines set out to sea on the USS New York, this ship will serve as a worldwide deployable symbol of the spirit of all heroes, past and present, living and fallen, who have blessed this great city and great state. Third, September 11 was the beginning of the first battle against the terrorists who damaged America, and who still threaten her, her allies and everyone who cherishes freedom and liberty. We are still in the first battle of a long war — but we are joined in that battle by our friends and allies and with a strong determination and resolve by our President and the American people — to see this through so our children and grandchildren will not face the threat of terrorism. Fourth, what greater American community could be recognized than the citizens of New York? Like previous ships that have borne the name of USS New York, this ship’s hallmark will reflect the determination, courage and resolve of this great State and City. This newest amphibious combat ship in the Navy’s arsenal, USS New York will stand for “life, liberty and the pursuit of all who threaten it.” It will take terror to the terrorists. This ship’s motto was inspired by President Bush when he said, “Never forget.” The citizens of America will never forget what happened in New York on September 11 will never forget the sacrifices of the brave citizens of this city and state — and the Navy and Marine Corps will never forget. And we will never forget what our great Commander in Chief, President Bush, said, “we will not waiver; we will not tire; we will not falter and we will not fail.” Thanks to all of you for joining me today at this festive, yet solemn, ceremony. I particularly want to thank Governor Pataki – without his enthusiastic recommendation and support, today would not have happened. Also, thanks to the Navy League, which has supported our Navy for 100 years, and to Tony Fisher and the Intrepid who have kept our Naval spirit alive in New York. God bless each and every one of you, God bless this State and City of heroes, and God bless the United States of America.
Source.
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