WISCONSIN — In July, U.S Senator Tammy Baldwin and 9 other members of Wisconsin’s federal delegation requested that the Secretary of the Navy take action.
Following the letter, resolutions were introduced to the House and Senate which expressed "the sense of Congress to name one of the Navy’s new submarines the U.S.S. Wisconsin," a press release stated Thursday.
Those resolutions were cosponsored by every member of Wisconsin’s House and Senate delegations respectively.
Now, Baldwin is applauding the U.S Navy's decision to name one of the next available submarines “U.S.S. Wisconsin.”
“What a great day for the state of Wisconsin. I am so proud that one of the next U.S. Navy submarines will carry the Wisconsin name," said Sen. Baldwin. "Our shipbuilding industry and its skilled workers have helped sustain America’s security for generations, boasting a successful history of building ships for our nation’s defense. This is a real honor to our proud shipbuilding tradition and the men and women of our state who have worked hard to support this class of submarines.”
Wisconsin is known for producing key naval capabilities.
Workers in the city of Marinette have completed 10 Littoral Combat Ships for the U.S. Navy, with another six ships under construction.
In addition, the Marinette shipyard was recently awarded the contract for the Navy’s new frigate program.
Wisconsin's history in shipbuilding is a testament to strong ties to the Navy.
The last Navy vessel to bear the name "U.S.S. Wisconsin" (BB 64) served in every major U.S. conflict after it was launched in 1944 until it was decommissioned in 1991.
Since then, no U.S. Naval vessel has carried the Wisconsin name.