PASCAGOULA, Miss., June 28, 2025 – In a ceremony rich with symbolism and national pride, HII christened the future USS Jeremiah Denton (DDG 129) today. This marks the third Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyer to be built at HII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding division, a testament to the company’s continued commitment to bolstering U.S. naval power.
The choice of name pays tribute to former U.S. Senator Jeremiah Denton Jr., a decorated Vietnam War veteran. A Navy Cross recipient for his bravery as a prisoner of war, Denton’s legacy of resilience and ingenuity resonates deeply. During his captivity, he famously used Morse code, blinking the word “torture” in a televised broadcast, a moment that underscored his unwavering spirit. After his naval career, Denton served in the U.S. Senate, representing his home state of Alabama.
“Today, we celebrate not only a ship, but the incredible dedication of our shipbuilders and the enduring spirit of Admiral Jeremiah Denton,” stated Ingalls Shipbuilding President Brian Blanchette. “This isn’t just about constructing a vessel; it’s about a partnership with the Navy, linking the work here in Pascagoula with the security of our nation and global stability.”
Acting Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research Development and Acquisition Brett Seidle, the ceremony’s keynote speaker, emphasized the importance of naval assets, the namesake’s enduring significance, and the invaluable contribution of the shipbuilding workforce. The event also offered a glimpse of the craftsmanship behind the destroyer, capturing the essence of this new capability for the naval fleet.
“In christening the future USS Jeremiah Denton, we proclaim a firm stance,” Seidle declared. “Like its namesake, this vessel will stand as a symbol that the United States does not yield, does not break, and perpetually honors its heroes. This is the legacy that this warship carries forward.”
The traditional bottle-breaking ceremony was performed by the ship’s co-sponsors and daughters of Jeremiah Denton, Madeleine Denton Doak and Mary Denton Lewis. Madeleine offered heartfelt remarks, celebrating her father and mother, both natives of Alabama.
“This remarkable ship was constructed by their neighbors (Mississippi), men and women who understand that their skills, tireless efforts and the meticulous attention to detail are essential in preserving the safety of our world.”
The Flight III destroyers represent the pinnacle of modern surface combatants, incorporating significant design enhancements. These upgrades include the advanced AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar (AMDR) and the Aegis Baseline 10 Combat System, equipping the vessel to effectively counter emerging threats for decades to come.
Ingalls has a strong tradition of delivering the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers to the U.S. Navy, including the first Flight III, the USS Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125), in June 2023. Currently, Ingalls Shipbuilding is constructing five Flight III destroyers, including the Ted Stevens (DDG 128), Jeremiah Denton (DDG 129), George M. Neal (DDG 131), Sam Nunn (DDG 133) and Thad Cochran (DDG 135).
For further insights into the ceremony, DDG 129, and the Arleigh Burke-class program, take a look at Jeremiah Denton (DDG 129) Christening – HII.
About HII
HII is a global defense provider, delivering comprehensive capabilities. Its dedication lies in building the world’s most formidable ships and providing all-domain solutions, enabling its clients to secure global peace and freedom.
As the foremost military shipbuilder in the U.S., with a legacy spanning over 135 years of advancing national security, HII delivers critical solutions, encompassing domains from ships to unmanned systems, cyber technology, ISR, AI/ML, and synthetic training. Currently headquartered in Virginia, HII has 44,000 employees. Learn more at:
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