Congresswoman McCollum to Join Navy in Christening Third USS Minnesota Nuclear Submarine

For Immediate Release:  October 26, 2012                                        
Contact:  Maria Reppas, (202) 225-6631 / (202) 527-0149 maria.reppas@mail.house.gov

Washington, DC – Tomorrow, Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) will join U.S. Navy officials, staff from Newport News Shipbuilding, and representatives from Huntington Ingalls Industries in pre-commissioning of the USS Minnesota – a 377 foot long, nuclear-powered submarine.  The U.S. Navy named the USS Minnesota in honor of our state's continual support of the armed forces. 

“Residents of my state share tremendous pride as the USS Minnesota becomes the newest vessel in the most powerful U.S. Naval fleet in our nation’s history,” said Congresswoman McCollum.  “To the craftsmen and women who built this magnificent vessel – congratulations on a job well done.  To Commander Fancher and the 120 officers and crew who will sail this submarine – Godspeed.”

Among its numerous capabilities, the USS Minnesota will be: able to reach submerged speeds faster than 25 knots (almost 30 MPH); remain underwater for up to three months at a time; and armed with Tomahawk Cruise missiles, MK-48 torpedoes, advanced mobile mines, and an unmanned under sea vehicle.  When she begins service at sea, she will have roughly 120 officers and crew.

“The christening of this submarine the USS Minnesota is a tribute to the courage of our USS Ward veterans, as well as to the proud service of all Minnesotans in the Navy and other branches of the U.S. Armed Forces,” concluded Congresswoman McCollum.  “On behalf of them and all Minnesotans, I say thank you.”

To view the ceremony via live webcast, please visit: http://www.livestream.com/usnavy.

Congresswoman Betty McCollum serves on the House Appropriations and Budget Committees.

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