A ceremony to celebrate the commissioning of the nuclear-powered USS Delaware (SSN 791) submarine took place at the Port of Wilmington on Saturday.
It marked the first time in nearly a century that the name of the First State has been used for a U.S. Navy vessel and the first time it’s ever been used for a submarine.
While the Virginia-class submarine was administratively commissioned underwater due to COVID-19 complications in April 2020, Saturday’s event was to commemorate the ceremonial inauguration of the 7,800-ton vessel.
The invitation-only ceremony was held in a restricted area at the Port of Wilmington.
For security reasons, the public was not be able to watch the commemoration from the banks of the Delaware River.
More on the USS Delaware:
A nuclear submarine bearing Delaware’s name has arrived in Wilmington’s port. What to know
‘Don’t mess with the USS Delaware’: Navy, politicians gear up for submarine ceremony
President Joe Biden and Jill Biden were guests. The first lady is the sponsor of the submarine, an honorary role in which she participates in the milestones of the vessel’s life. A sponsor’s spirit is meant to protect and guide the ship and its crew during its lifetime.
Sen. Tom Carper, a Navy veteran himself, was the keynote speaker. He was joined by Wilmington Mayor Mike Purzycki, Gov. John Carney, Rep. Lisa Blunt-Rochester, Sen. Chris Coons and high-ranking Navy officials.
