Navy to Launch Cutting-Edge Amphibious Transport Dock Richard M. McCool, Jr.

The Honorable Carlos Del Toro, Secretary of the Navy, is set to deliver the principal address at the commissioning ceremony of the USS Richard M. McCool Jr. The event will also feature remarks from the Honorable Matt Gaetz, U.S. Representative from Florida’s 1st District, Admiral Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations, General Christopher Mahoney, Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, and Kari Wilkinson, Executive Vice President of HII and President of Ingalls Shipbuilding. The ship’s sponsors are Shana McCool and Kate Oja, granddaughters of its namesake.

The USS Richard M. McCool Jr. will be the 13th San Antonio-class ship commissioned into the United States Navy and the first to bear this namesake.

“Captain McCool’s leadership in the face of grave danger and his acts of heroism to save his crew and ship are an example for all,” stated Secretary Del Toro. “I am proud that the Department of the Navy is pursuing the Amphibious Multi-Ship Procurement Contract, which includes three San Antonio Class amphibious ships, similar to USS Richard M. McCool Jr., and an America Class amphibious assault ship.” Del Toro expressed his pride in seeing the sailors and marines operate this new warship, honoring its courageous namesake.

The Navy named LPD 29 to honor Capt. Richard M. McCool, Jr., Ret., who received the Medal of Honor in 1945. During the Battle of Okinawa, kamikaze aircraft attacked his ship. Despite suffering serious injuries, he led efforts to extinguish a fire and rescue injured sailors.

San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ships are designed for various expeditionary warfare missions. These ships provide the Navy and Marine Corps with modern, sea-based platforms that are networked, survivable, and tailored for 21st-century operations. They are equipped with capabilities such as the MV-22 Osprey, the upgraded Amphibious Assault Vehicle, and future means for delivering Marines ashore.

Direct media inquiries to the Navy Office of Information at (703) 697-5342. For more information on the Amphibious Transport Dock ship, visit the Navy’s official resources.