USS IDAHO Christening Marks Historic Moment for Idaho and U.S. Navy

In Groton, Connecticut, the General Dynamics Electric Boat shipyard will host the official christening and naming ceremony of the future USS IDAHO, the latest Virginia-class submarine from the U.S. Navy, on Saturday, March 16, 2024.

A Unique Christening Tradition

As part of a time-honored naval custom, Terry Stackley, the ship sponsor, will perform the christening of the submarine with a distinctively Idahoan flair during the event. Instead of the traditional method of breaking a bottle of champagne against the boat’s hull, Stackley will use water gathered from four of Idaho’s lakes: Lake Pend Oreille, Payette Lake, Henrys Lake, and Redfish Lake. This deviation from tradition carries considerable significance and injects a personalized element into the ceremony.

A Century in the Making

The USS IDAHO holds historical significance as the first U.S. Navy warship to bear the name in over a century. The battleship USS IDAHO BB42 was christened in June 1917. This christening marks a momentous occasion for the Navy and the state of Idaho.

A Personal Connection

Terry Stackley, the ship sponsor, has deep ties to the Navy. With her father having served and worked in private shipyards, including Electric Boat Groton, and her husband’s tenure as Assistant Secretary of the Navy, Stackley’s connection to the Navy spans generations. Her dedication to the future USS IDAHO and its crew is evident as she takes on the role of ship sponsor.

The Journey to Commissioning

The christening represents the third of five major events in the life of a U.S. Navy warship before it joins the fleet. Following the naming and keel-laying ceremonies, the USS IDAHO will undergo rigorous sea trials to ensure its readiness for combat. This process, spanning approximately five years, culminates in a commissioning ceremony, where the vessel becomes an active part of the nation’s military strategy.

Building Bonds with Idaho

The USS IDAHO Commissioning Committee, chaired by former Idaho Governor Dirk Kempthorne, has played a vital role in fostering a connection between the people of Idaho and the future USS IDAHO. Through visits, events, and community outreach, the committee aims to strengthen the bond between Idahoans and the sailors who will serve aboard the submarine

As the future USS IDAHO prepares to set sail, it carries with it the pride and spirit of Idaho, ready to serve its nation with honor and distinction.

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