U.S. Navy Christens USS Jeremiah Denton in Mississippi

The future USS Jeremiah Denton (DDG 129), a Flight III Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, was christened at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi, honoring Vietnam War veteran and U.S. Senator Jeremiah Denton Jr. Denton, who spent eight years as a prisoner of war and was awarded the Navy Cross for his heroism, is remembered for his resilience and leadership, including a famous Morse code message spelling "torture" during captivity. The Denton family participated in the mast-stepping ceremony, placing mementos such as a commendation from President Ronald Reagan and a Navy Cross onto the ship's mast. The christening event highlighted the shipbuilders' craftsmanship and the Navy's commitment to maritime dominance, with remarks from Navy officials emphasizing the vessel as a symbol of American resolve and strength. The USS Jeremiah Denton will be delivered to the Navy by late 2026 and will feature advanced systems like the AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar, enhancing the fleet's warfighting capabilities. This milestone reflects the Navy's 250-year legacy and ongoing innovation in maritime power.