USS Newport News Celebrates 25th Anniversary

The city of Newport News, Virginia, presented their namesake ship, Los Angeles class-attack submarine USS Newport News (SSN 750), a proclamation commemorating the boat’s 25th commissioning anniversary during a ceremony held in the city’s Huntington Park, July 19.

Mayor McKinley L. Price expressed his gratitude to the ship and her crew for their contribution to national security and their involvement with the city.

He then read the resolution, which stated:

“Whereas, the City Council of the City of Newport News, Virginia, wishes to recognize Commander Christopher Tarsa and the crew of the USS Newport News on the 25th anniversary of the ship’s commissioning… The motto Magni Nominis Umara (‘In the Shadow of Great Name’) links the ship to the city for which she is named… It acknowledges and congratulates Commander Tarsa and the crew for its distinguished and decorated service to our nation.”

Accepting the proclamation from the mayor was Cmdr. Jasper Hartsfield, deputy executive director, Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic and former commanding officer of USS Newport News. Hartsfield accepted the proclamation on behalf of Cmdr. Christopher Tarsa, current commanding officer, USS Newport News, and the crew, who could not attend due to operational commitments.

Newport News is the third U.S. Navy ship to be named after the city of Newport News, Va. The contract to build her was awarded to Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Newport News, on April 19, 1982, and her keel was laid down on March 3, 1984. She was launched on March 15, 1986, sponsored by Mrs. Rosemary D. Trible, and commissioned on June 3, 1989. The 361-foot ship has a crew compliment of 13 officers and 121 enlisted Sailors.