SENATOR COLLINS HAILS NAVY DECISION TO NAME NEW SHIP "MILLINOCKET"

            WASHINGTON, D.C.-The United States Navy today informed Senator Susan Collins that it intends to name a new joint high speed vessel, currently under construction, the "Millinocket."  The Navy chose this name because "Millinocket personifies the American values of ingenuity and community."

            "I am delighted that the Navy has chosen to honor our state by naming one of its newest ships after the Town of Millinocket," said Senator Collins, who is a member of both the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.  "Millinocket is a proud community that was built on a rich history of hard work, determination, and perseverance. These are the same qualities that will be reflected in all those who serve aboard the Millinocket for years to come."

            Construction on this ship began on September 2, 2011 at Austal USA in Mobile, Alabama.  It is tentatively scheduled to be christened in January 2013.  The joint high speed vessels will be used by the Navy and Army for fast intra-theater transportation of troops, military vehicles and equipment.

            Interestingly, in February, the Navy decommissioned the USS Stephen W. Groves after nearly 30 years of service.  That ship, which was built at Bath Iron Works, was named for Ensign Stephen W. Groves, from the Millinocket area, and a naval aviator who was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross for his brave actions during the Battle of Midway during World War II.