Washington, DC – Congressman Richard W. Pombo (CA-11) issued the following statement today following the announcement by the Secretary of the Navy that the USS Iowa was officially moved from “reserve” to “donation” status. 

“The announcement that the USS Iowa has been removed from the Naval Vessel Registry and moved from “reserve” to “donation” status is significant.   This is great news for California, and those who served bravely on the Iowa,” said Congressman Pombo.  “It’s my hope that Rough and Ready Island at the Port of Stockton will indeed have the honor and privilege of being the final destination for this important part of our military history.”

In December 2005, Congressman Richard W. Pombo and Senator Dianne Feinstein co-sponsored a provision in the FY ’06 Defense Authorization conference report ensuring that the USS Iowa would be made available to communities in California.  The legislation specified the transfer of the USS Iowa to permanent donation status through the Navy’s Ship Donation Program, allowing the City of Stockton and other interested California communities to enter competitive bids for the battleship. 

Congressman Richard W. Pombo represents California's Eleventh Congressional District.  Congressman Pombo is Chairman of the House Resources Committee and serves on the House Agriculture Committee.