Unveiling the USS Portland

Thousands of crewman and nearly five years later, Ingalls Shipbuilding has finished yet another major warship. Named after a landmark state with a rich history tied to the U.S. Navy, the USS Portland was unveiled today.
All aboard the USS Portland, as Ingalls Shipbuilding delivers its 11th San Antonio class ship to the U.S. Navy. Ingalls LPS Program Manager Steve Sloan said, “We are delivering a warship to the U.S. Navy for the Navy and the Marine Corps to use and we are immensely proud.”
This 684 foot long, 105 foot wide ship is used to embark and land marines, their equipment and supplies. U.S.S. Portland Commanding Officer Captain J.R. Hill said, “Certainly look forward to getting the crew complete in all their certification to take her underway in about 90 days or so.”
Nearly 400 sailors will man this warship in the next 90 days, constructing amphibious and expeditionary missions of sea control and power projection to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. “This crew has been waiting for the last year and a half for this day and they have been ecstatic and all looking forward to this day where we can take control of the ship and stand its watches,” said Captain Hill.
Today is a momentous day not only for the U.S. Navy, but for Ingalls Shipbuilding as well, but the work doesn’t stop here. “We’re gonna go back to work on LPD’s 28 and 29, but we take a moment, pat ourselves on the back, and very happy for the Navy and LPD 27,” said Sloan.
Ingalls will lay the keel of their 12th San Antonio class ship this fall. Until then, this 25,000 ton machine will continue to be the newest mammoth in a long line of military transportation. “We really appreciate Ingalls providing a beautiful ship.”