Future Medium Landing Ship LSM 1 Named by SECNAV Del Toro: A New Era Begins

On January 16, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced that the first ship in the new McClung-class of medium landing ships will be named USS McClung (LSM 1). This naming honors Major Megan M.L. McClung, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate and Public Affairs Officer who lost her life in Iraq, marking the first Navy vessel to bear her name.

Del Toro emphasized the ship’s role in enhancing the Marine Corps’ operational agility and combat readiness. “The Landing Ship Medium (LSM) will be an asset to the Marine Corps’ amphibious capabilities,” he stated. This recognition serves to honor Major McClung’s dedication and sacrifice, highlighting her service, honor, and loyalty to the nation.

The McClung family expressed deep emotions upon learning of the naming decision. Mike McClung, her father, commented on the significance of this honor, noting Megan’s dedication to storytelling and service both in life and legacy. “This ship, named after her, is testament to her lasting impact, ensuring that those who serve on it continue to tell her story while creating their own,” he remarked.

Major McClung commissioned in 1995 from the United States Naval Academy, serving actively until 2004 before joining the Marine Corps Reserve. Recalled in 2005, she was deployed to Al Anbar Province, Iraq, serving as the media relations officer for I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward). Her life was tragically cut short by a roadside bomb in Ramadi on December 6, 2006, becoming the first female Marine officer killed in the Iraq war.

Legacy initiatives in her name include the 2007 naming of the broadcast studio at Camp Victory, Iraq, and a leadership award at the Defense Information School (DINFOS). Inducted into the DINFOS Hall of Fame in 2024, her leadership continues to be recognized through the annual Major Megan McClung Leadership Award at the Joint Women’s Leadership Symposium.

The USS McClung’s sponsors will be her mother, Dr. Re McClung, and niece, Gabrielle McClung, establishing a lasting connection with the ship and its crew. The Navy envisions the LSM program to include 18 to 35 new amphibious ships aimed at supporting the Marine Corps in Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO).

Mechanized and utility landing craft play a critical role in transporting equipment and troops, as well as supporting civilian humanitarian operations, emphasizing the multifaceted capabilities of these vessels.

For detailed information on the medium landing ships, visit Arizonanews.org.