Huntington Ingalls Industries recently christened the 513'x66' Arleigh Burke-class destroyer Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125) at the company’s Ingalls Shipbuilding division in Pascagoula, Miss.
Main propulsion comes from four GE LM2500 gas turbines generating 100,000 hp. Running speed for the new destroyer is 31 knots.
Jack H. Lucas, a longtime resident of Hattiesburg, Miss., was the youngest Marine and youngest service member in World War II awarded the Medal of Honor.
During a close firefight with Japanese soldiers, Lucas saved the lives of three Marines when he unhesitatingly placed himself on two grenades.
“Jack H. Lucas made a selfless decision to choose others and country over self,” Ingalls Shipbuilding President Kari Wilkinson said in a prepared statement. “Our Ingalls shipbuilders have a deep appreciation and respect for what sailors and Marines do on behalf of our nation. We are proud to support them and to provide them this remarkable ship, our first Flight III destroyer.”
Armament includes a 5"/62 Mk. 45 Model 4 lightweight gun, two 25 mm Mk 38 autocannons, four .50 caliber machine guns, a 20mm Phalanx CIWS, two Mark 32 triple torpedo tubs (Mark 46 torpedo, Mark 50 torpedo, and Mark 54 lightweight torpedo, 96-cell Mk 41 VLS (RIM-66M standard missile, BGM-109 Tomahawk, and RUM-139 vertical launch ASROC).
“Jack H. Lucas is not only the most capable and sophisticated surface combatant ever built by man, but it also represents the bridge from the past to the future, as we bring a new radar, the Aegis Baseline 10, and a new electric plant onto an already highly capable platform,” Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Mike Gilday said in his keynote speaker’s remarks. “Such an evolution would be impossible without the shipbuilders of Huntington Ingalls Industries and the Pascagoula community. Flight III represents the dedication and commitment of our sailors and civilians — the skill and innovation of our shipyards and industry partners — and the commitment of the American people to keep the seas free and open for all.”
Jack H. Lucas, which carries two SH-60 Seahawk helicopters, is co-sponsored by Ruby Lucas, widow of the ship’s namesake, and Catherine B. Reynolds, chairman and CEO of the Catherine B. Reynolds Foundation. Together, the two sponsors officially christened the ship and made remarks during the ceremony.
“May the Jack H. Lucas be indestructible, just like he was,” Ruby Lucas said. “This first of its kind ship is advanced in integrity, courage and commitment to serve our great country. Jack never ran from a fight, and I’m certain that all aboard his namesake will represent Jack with honor. Just as I feel his spirit with me, be assured that he will be with all of you all the time.”
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker and U.S. Rep. Steven Palazzo, both of Mississippi, delivered remarks. Other speakers included Meredith Berger, performing the duties of Under Secretary of the Navy, and Maj. Gen. Jason Bohm, commanding general, Marine Corps Recruiting Command.
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