Events

U.S. Navy names General Dynamics Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Independence
On April 6, 2006 Secretary of the Navy Donald C. Winter named the Navy's newest Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), built by General Dynamics, Independence.

“Independence, along with USS Freedom, are going to be great 21st century ships. Their speed and agility are widely recognized. I believe that their modular approach yields tremendous flexibility for employing these ships and for taking the fight right to the enemy’s shoreline," Winter said.

The name Independence recognizes the cornerstone of our nation’s foundation that so many Americans have fought and died to ensure. Five previous ships have also had that name.

General Dynamics Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Keel Laying
On January 19, 2006 the General Dynamics Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) team signified the ship's transition from concept to reality with a keel laying ceremony in Mobile, Ala. Honored U.S. Navy guests and representatives of the Alabama Congressional delegation, along with members of the General Dynamics LCS team, were on hand to witness the event, including Dr. Delores M. Etter, Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition, Rear Adm. Charles S. Hamilton, II, program executive officer for ships, Senator Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) and Congressman Jo Bonner (R-Mobile).

“This milestone marks a significant achievement in the LCS program,” said Hamilton, “The LCS brings our Naval forces the speed, flexibility and capability we need to face the asymmetric threats of the future.”

Senator Sessions (R-Ala.) said, “Today marks an important milestone as the U.S. Navy embarks on the construction of a new vessel that will carry it to the littorals worldwide.  The General Dynamics-Austal partnership returns to Alabama the finest elements of advanced shipbuilding, and I am immensely pleased that we in Alabama are part of this new endeavor.”

A ceremony program is available and images follow below.

Dr. Delores Etter, Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Research, Development and Acquisition, prepares to etch her initials into the keel of the ship.	Dr. Delores Etter, Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Navy, Research, Development and Acquisition shakes hands with John Rothwell, Executive Chairman, Austal, Ltd.
Members of LCS 2 crew were on hand to witness the beginning of their ship.	Navy officials, General Dynamics executives and congressional members in front of the LCS 2 keel.