Navy “Strongly Supports” Anchorage for Namesake’s Commissioning

Senator Lisa Murkowski received a response from the Secretary of the Navy’s office regarding her November request to have theUSS Anchorage – a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship – commissioned in Anchorage once it completes its sea trials.

“The Port of Anchorage would be an ideal location to commission the USS Anchorage,” said Senator Murkowski. “I am encouraged that Secretary of the Navy agrees, and is going to give an Alaskan ceremony serious consideration.”

“The Secretary strongly supports Anchorage as the commissioning site,” according to the response from the Navy sent to Senator Murkowski. Though the Navy indicates further research is needed about the timing of a commission during potentially ‘adverse seasonal weather conditions,’ the letter concludes “I assure you the Secretary will give every consideration to having LPD 23 commissioned in Anchorage.”

The USS Anchorage is the second ship to be named for Anchorage, and all three members of the Alaskan Congressional Delegation have suggested the namesake port as a fitting location for the ship’s commissioning.

Source: Office of Senator Murkowski