USS Jack H. Lucas Officially Joins the U.S. Navy Fleet in Grand Ceremony

Thousands of spectators gathered at the Port of Tampa on Saturday to witness the official commissioning of the USS Jack H. Lucas (DDG 125) into active service for the United States Navy.

The Honorable Erik Raven, under-secretary of the Navy, highlighted the significance of this moment. He emphasized, "Commissioning the Jack H. Lucas means we continue to deliver fast, agile, and networked surface combatants to the Navy. The Jack H. Lucas is built to fight. It is a fast, maneuverable, versatile, and lethal ship – capable of tackling any mission it is given."

Raven went on to stress that this addition to the Navy's fleet will enhance its adaptability and readiness, while also ensuring the commitment to maintaining the free flow of commerce, deterring military aggression, and facilitating swift responses to natural disasters worldwide.

The USS Jack H. Lucas stands as the Navy's most technologically advanced guided missile destroyer, measuring an impressive 511 feet in length. It's named after Private First Class Jack H. Lucas, a World War II hero, and Medal of Honor recipient.

Private First Class Jack H. Lucas enlisted in the Marines at the tender age of 14 and displayed extraordinary bravery at Iwo Jima. He famously saved lives by diving on two grenades and shielding his fellow servicemembers from the blast. Notably, Lucas holds the distinction of being the youngest Marine and the youngest serviceman in World War II to receive the United States' highest military decoration for valor.

In a fitting tribute to this hero's legacy, the USS Jack H. Lucas will make its next port of call at the naval base in San Diego, California. There, it will embark on a training cycle before receiving its deployment assignment.

The commissioning of this remarkable ship marks a pivotal moment in the U.S. Navy's commitment to safeguarding global waters and defending the nation's interests.