HII Christens Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29)

Rhea-AI Summary

HII (NYSE: HII) announced the christening of the Richard M. McCool Jr. amphibious transport dock (LPD 29) in Pascagoula, Mississippi, on June 11, 2022. This vessel honors U.S. Navy Captain Richard M. McCool Jr., a Medal of Honor recipient. The christening ceremony included remarks from Ingalls Shipbuilding President Kari Wilkinson and Under Secretary of the Navy Erik Raven, emphasizing the ship's role in supporting U.S. naval capabilities. The ship, co-sponsored by McCool's granddaughters, is part of HII's commitment to national security and maritime defense.

Positive

• Christening of LPD 29 enhances HII's portfolio of amphibious ships.
• Strengthens partnerships with U.S. Navy, supporting defense capabilities.

Negative

• None.

PASCAGOULA, Miss., June 11, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HII (NYSE: HII) announced today that its Ingalls Shipbuilding division christened the company’s 13^th amphibious transport dock, Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29), constructed for the U.S. Navy.

“For nearly two decades, we have had the opportunity to build these amphibious ships, and we look forward to continuing this journey with such a valued partner,” Ingalls Shipbuilding President Kari Wilkinson said. “Today we reflect on Richard M. McCool Jr.’s bravery and heroism in front of a ship that will carry another generation of brave sailors and Marines into missions defending our freedom.”

LPD 29 is named to honor U.S. Navy Capt. Richard M. McCool Jr., who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions in rescuing survivors from a sinking destroyer and for saving his own landing support ship during a World War II kamikaze attack. His rescue efforts took place exactly 77 years prior to the day Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29) was christened.         

Under Secretary of the Navy Erik Raven was the keynote speaker.

“Richard M. McCool Jr. truly embodied the spirit of service above self,” Raven said. “The sailors and Marines who will sail on this future ship carry on that legacy following the example of spirit, patriotism and selflessness set by Richard M. McCool Jr.”

When speaking of America’s defense capabilities, Raven said, “We are able to deploy exquisite capabilities across the globe in great part due to our dedicated shipbuilders and our talented team. These talented Americans are essential to making sure that our naval forces have the ships that they need.”

Photo accompanying this release are available at: https://newsroom.hii.com/releases/hii-richard-m-mccool-jr-lpd-29-christening.

Richard M. McCool Jr. is co-sponsored by Shana McCool and Kate Oja, granddaughters of the ship’s namesake. Together, the two sponsors officially christened Richard M. McCool Jr. by smashing a bottle of sparkling wine across the bow of the ship. Shana spoke on behalf of both sponsors at today’s ceremony.

When speaking about her grandfather’s heroic acts some 77 years ago, Shana McCool said, “To the commanding officer and future crew of this ship, may she (the ship) keep you safe. And in the words of our grandfather, may you always remember to fight as a unit and not as individuals.”

Additional information about the ship and its sponsors is available at: https://ingalls.huntingtoningalls.com/lpd29christening/

HII is an all-domain defense and technologies partner, recognized worldwide as America’s largest shipbuilder. With a 135-year history of trusted partnerships in advancing U.S. national security, HII delivers critical capabilities ranging from the most powerful and survivable naval ships ever built, to unmanned systems, ISR and AI/ML analytics. HII leads the industry in mission-driven solutions that support and enable an all-domain force. Headquartered in Virginia, HII’s skilled workforce is 44,000 strong. For more information please visit:

• HII on the web:  https://www.hii.com/
• HII on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamHII
• HII on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/WeAreHii  
• HII on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/WeAreHii

Contact:

Kimberly K. Aguillard
Kimberly.K.Aguillard@hii-co.com
(228) 355-5663

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7f4c7e21-c31f-4d81-a548-129d0ef6727e

FAQ

What is the significance of the christening of LPD 29 for HII?

The christening of LPD 29 represents HII's commitment to building amphibious ships for the U.S. Navy, enhancing its defense capabilities.

Who was LPD 29 named after?

LPD 29 is named after U.S. Navy Captain Richard M. McCool Jr., a Medal of Honor recipient for his heroic actions during World War II.

When was LPD 29 christened?

LPD 29 was christened on June 11, 2022.

What role does LPD 29 play in U.S. naval operations?

LPD 29 will support U.S. naval operations by transporting troops and equipment, enhancing operational efficiency.

What is HII's role in U.S. defense?

HII is the largest shipbuilder in America, providing critical capabilities and supporting national security through advanced naval shipbuilding.