The US Navy has christened the future USS William Charette (DDG 130), an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer, during a ceremony held at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works in Maine.
Named after Master Chief Hospital Corpsman William Richard Charette, a Medal of Honor recipient recognised for his actions during intense fighting at Outpost Vegas in Korea on 27 March 1953.
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The vessel’s christening ceremony was attended by Charette family members, naval leaders, and public officials.
Ship’s Sponsor Kathryn Charette Donovan, accompanied by Maid of Honor Michelle Charette and Matron of Honor Sara Charette Wright, conducted the traditional bottle break with sparkling wine as part of the christening.
Navy acting Secretary Hung Cao, who delivered the principal address said: “Serving as the shield of the fleet, protecting the Carrier Strike Group from air and missile threats and maintaining open sea lanes for maritime commerce— this premier surface combatant will be a cornerstone of America’s new Golden Fleet.”
Keel for the future USS William Charette (DDG 130), the fifth ship in the Flight III series of Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, was laid in 2024.
Arleigh Burke-class destroyers serve as the foundation of the US Navy’s surface operations, capable of a range of missions including air, surface, and subsurface warfare; they routinely operate globally to ensure maritime security.
DDG 130 is set to join the fleet after completion of outfitting and sea trials. The Navy considers such additions crucial to sustaining its operational tempo and support of US interests abroad.
Besides the future USS William Charette, Bath Iron Works is also constructing other Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, including the Louis H. Wilson Jr. (DDG 126), Quentin Walsh (DDG 132), John E. Kilmer (DDG 134), and Richard G. Lugar (DDG 136).
In November last year, the US Navy received the future USS Harvey C. Barnum, Jr. (DDG 124), an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer, from General Dynamics Bath Iron Works shipyard in Maine.
