SECNAV Del Toro Unveils Future USS Travis Manion (LPD 33) Amphibious Transport Dock

The United States Navy has announced that a new San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock, LPD 33, will be named the USS Travis Manion. This marks the first Navy vessel to be named in honor of 1st Lieutenant Travis Manion, a Silver Star recipient known for his valor in Iraq. Navy Secretary Del Toro remarked that the ship would symbolize the courage, bravery, and selfless service that Manion embodied.

Travis Manion graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 2004. He was deployed to Iraq with the 1st Reconnaissance Battalion and later served on a military transition team advising the Iraqi Army. In April 2007, Manion exposed himself to enemy fire multiple times to save wounded soldiers, an action that ultimately cost him his life. His bravery earned him the Silver Star posthumously.

The significance of naming the ship after Manion was highlighted by his father, Col. Thomas Manion, USMC (Ret.), who described it as a tribute not only to Travis but to all veterans and their families who have served since September 11, 2001. The words “If Not Me, Then Who…” spoken by Travis before his final deployment continue to inspire, serving as a reminder of his dedication to duty.

Ryan Manion, Travis’ sister and CEO of the Travis Manion Foundation, along with her daughters Maggie and Honor Borek, have been designated as the ship’s sponsors. They will uphold the ship’s legacy and serve as a bridge between its crew and the family. Ryan expressed pride in the honor, noting Travis would emphasize remembering all those who served in uniform.

Amphibious transport dock ships like the USS Travis Manion are critical to expeditionary warfare missions. They can transport and land Marines, equipment, and supplies using various craft and aircraft. These vessels support amphibious assault and special operations, playing a pivotal role in modern military strategy.