U.S. Navy Commissions Its Latest Destroyer, USS John Basilone, In New York
The U.S. Navy has just welcomed its newest destroyer, the USS John Basilone (DDG 122), in a grand commissioning ceremony in New York on November 9, 2024. This ship is a tribute to a true American hero.
Named after Gunnery Sergeant John Basilone, this Arleigh Burke-class destroyer honors the bravery of a Marine who received the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during World War II.
Basilone’s legacy doesn’t end there. He bravely lost his life at the Battle of Iwo Jima in 1945, earning the Navy Cross posthumously. The ship stands as a testament to his extraordinary courage.
Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro, shared words of admiration during the ceremony, stating that the USS John Basilone will uphold Basilone’s legacy and honor all who have served the nation.
Special guests, including Admiral Daryl Caudle and Lieutenant General Roberta Shea, added their tributes, while Basilone’s niece, Diane Hawkins, and General Dynamics President Charles F. Krugh reflected on this momentous occasion.
The ship’s sponsors, Ryan Manion and Amy Looney of the Travis Manion Foundation, work tirelessly to support veterans and honor fallen heroes, making them fitting ambassadors for the Basilone’s legacy.
Gunnery Sergeant Basilone remains the only enlisted Marine to be awarded both the Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross. His resilience and bravery are woven into the spirit of the USS John Basilone.
The commissioning of the USS John Basilone is more than the launch of a powerful warship; it is a tribute to a hero who embodied the values of courage, sacrifice, and loyalty—ideals that this ship will carry forward.