USS New Jersey Christening

On a windy but sunny Saturday in Virginia, the USS New Jersey was christened!

A major milestone in the life of a US Navy vessel is the christening. In this case it was an opportunity to officially name the USS New Jersey and also recognize and honor the men and women responsible for constructing her.

The ceremony took place outside of Newport News Shipbuilding’s Module Outfitting Facility and was attended by more than 1,800 guests, including Newport News Shipbuilding employees who are building New Jersey, members of the submarine’s crew, Navy personnel and other government officials, including Jeh Johnson.

U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott, of Virginia, and U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross, of New Jersey, both delivered remarks. Other speakers included New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy; Jay Stefany, acting assistant secretary of the Navy for research, development and acquisition; Vice Adm. Johnny Wolfe Jr., director of the Navy’s strategic systems programs; and Kevin Graney, president of General Dynamics Electric Boat.

Retired U.S. Navy Adm. Michael Mullen, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and former chief of naval operations, provided an outstanding keynote address at this event on Saturday, November 13th, 2021.

The highlight of the event was when Dr. Susan DiMarco (the boat’s sponsor) broke a bottle of US sparkling wine at the bow of the boat. Pictured with Dr. DiMarco are Jennifer Boykin, president of Newport News Shipbuilding; Retired U.S. Navy Adm. Michael Mullen, former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and former chief of naval operations; and Cmdr. Carlos Otero, the boat’s prospective commanding officer.