USS Pierre Crew Reunites with Their Namesake City

PIERRE, S.D. (Sept. 19, 2024) — Sailors in dress whites are a rare sight in South Dakota, a state far from any coastlines. Pierre, the state’s capital, experienced this rarity as the crew of the USS Pierre (LCS 38) made a much-anticipated visit from Sept. 17-19.

“Once we received word that the new USS Pierre’s crew was coming into town we wasted no time engaging with the local leaders and community members setting up meetings and events,” said Mike Mehlhaff, executive officer of the USS Pierre’s commissioning committee. The crew engaged in a series of planned activities, including school presentations at local elementary schools and T.F. Riggs High School.

“The students were absolutely thrilled to meet the U.S. Navy Sailors today,” said Jennifer Nedrebo, principal at Buchanan Elementary School. “Their excitement was contagious, and many of them were beaming with pride.”

Cmdr. Justin Guernsey, commanding officer of USS Pierre, emphasized the significance of these interactions. “It’s very important for us to foster a connection to the people and community that our ship and crew will represent,” he said.

The crew also toured Pierre with Mayor Steve Harding, met Governor Kristi Noem, and participated in a city commission meeting. “Folks who interacted with the Sailors were very interested to learn about the ship and really developed a connection,” commented Harding.

The crew’s visit included an open house at the American Legion and participation in local media interviews. Local business owners also displayed welcome signs.

“These types of visits are incredibly beneficial for our community,” said Nedrebo, highlighting the broader perspective it provides residents about the Navy’s role. Lt. Marshal Van Gundy, weapons officer aboard USS Pierre, echoed these sentiments, noting the deepened connection with the city through media outreach.

The crew also volunteered at Feeding South Dakota. “We thought it was super important that we were able to give back to the community that embraced us with open arms,” said Command Senior Chief Aaron Beugler.

Mayor Harding reflected on the visit’s importance. “Many people in Pierre will never see their namesake on the water. That’s why this namesake visit is so special,” he said.

As the visit concluded, Cmdr. Guernsey expressed his gratitude. “This truly was a fantastic visit,” he said, noting the hospitality of state and local government, business owners, and residents. USS Pierre will soon become a significant part of South Dakota’s naval history.

The upcoming USS Pierre will be the second vessel to bear the name, following the PC-461-class submarine chaser from World War II. For more updates on the USS Pierre (LCS 38), visit usspierre.org.