Huntington Ingalls Industries’ (HII) Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division marked a pivotal moment today with the keel laying ceremony for the Virginia-class attack submarine Barb (SSN 804). This event not only signifies the commencement of construction for a vessel poised to bolster the U.S. Navy’s underwater fleet but also honors a legacy of naval excellence.
SSN 804 will be the third U.S. Navy submarine to bear the name Barb. The first, SS 220, was commissioned in 1942 and earned a distinguished reputation during World War II under the command of Eugene “Lucky” Fluckey. This submarine was awarded four Presidential Citations, a Navy Unit Commendation, and eight battle stars for its outstanding service. The second Barb, SSN 596, a nuclear-powered submarine commissioned in 1963, participated in special operations during the Vietnam War and was sponsored by Marjorie Fluckey, the wife of Rear Adm. Fluckey.
Pamela Bove, the ship’s sponsor for the newest Barb, brings a rich background to her role. She began her career as a civilian in the submarine division at the Navy Operational Intelligence Center before moving to a defense company where she met her husband, Thomas “Tom” Bove, grandson of Rear Adm. Fluckey. During the keel laying ceremony, NNS welder Andrew Kahler etched Bove’s initials onto a metal plate, signifying the keel of SSN 804 as being “truly and fairly laid.” This plate will remain affixed to the submarine throughout its service life, marking a permanent connection to its origins.
Barb (SSN 804) is the 31st Virginia-class fast attack submarine and will be the 15th delivered by NNS. The Virginia-class submarines are renowned for their advanced capabilities, which include enhanced firepower, maneuverability, and stealth. These attributes are critical for modern naval operations, ensuring that the U.S. Navy maintains a competitive edge in underwater warfare.
The keel laying ceremony is more than a construction milestone; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Barb name and the continuous innovation in naval technology. As SSN 804 takes shape, it will embody the spirit of its predecessors while leveraging cutting-edge advancements to meet the challenges of the future.
The ceremony also underscored the importance of the human element in naval traditions. The sponsorship role, carried out by Pamela Bove, and the craftsmanship demonstrated by welder Andrew Kahler highlight the personal and professional dedication that goes into each submarine. This human touch is integral to the shipbuilding process, ensuring that every vessel is not just a piece of machinery but a symbol of national pride and maritime heritage.
As the construction of Barb (SSN 804) progresses, it will undoubtedly face rigorous testing and development phases. However, the foundation laid today sets the stage for a submarine that will serve as a cornerstone of the U.S. Navy’s fleet for decades to come. The advanced capabilities of the Virginia-class submarines will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of naval warfare, ensuring that the U.S. remains at the forefront of maritime defense.
In summary, the keel laying ceremony for Barb (SSN 804) is a significant event that honors the past while embracing the future. It is a reminder of the enduring legacy of naval excellence and the continuous pursuit of technological advancements in the maritime industry. As SSN 804 takes shape, it will carry forward the proud tradition of the Barb name, equipped with the latest advancements to meet the evolving demands of naval operations.