The Navy commissioned its newest Independence-variant littoral combat ship on Saturday.
The USS Kansas City was commissioned administratively via naval message due to public health safety and restrictions of large public gatherings related to the coronavirus pandemic, a release states.
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The commissioning transitioned the ship to normal operations.
“This Independence-variant littoral combat ship will continue our proud naval legacy and embody the spirit of the people of Kansas City,” said Secretary of the Navy Kenneth J. Braithwaite. "I am confident the crew of the USS Kansas City will extend the reach and capability of our force and confront the challenges of today's complex world with our core values of honor, courage and commitment.”
Vice Adm. Richard A. Brown, commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, welcomed the ship that brings capabilities to counter diesel submarine, mines, and fast surface craft threats to the premier surface force in the world.
“Like other littoral combat ships, Kansas City brings speed and agility to the fleet,” said Brown via naval message.
The ship’s sponsor, Tracy Davidson, offered congratulations to everyone who played a role in delivering USS Kansas City to service.
“I am so proud of USS Kansas City and her crew, and everyone involved, for all the tremendous work they’ve done to bring this ship to life," she said.
Kansas City’s commanding officer, Cmdr. R.J. Zamberlan, reported the ship ready.
“The caliber of crew required to prepare a warship entering the fleet is second to none,” said Zamberlan. “This is even more impressive aboard an LCS, where every member of the minimally manned team is required to fulfill multiple roles and excel at all of them to get the job done. This crew has exceeded expectations in unprecedented times and I could not be prouder to be their captain.”
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Kansas City is the 11th of the Independence-variant to join the fleet and the second ship to be named for Kansas City. The name Kansas City was assigned to a heavy cruiser during World War II. However, construction was canceled after one month due to the end of the war.
The name Kansas City was also assigned to the Wichita-class replenishment oiler AOR-3 in 1967. This ship saw service in the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm and was decommissioned in 1994.
The Navy is looking at a future opportunity to commemorate the special event with the ship’s sponsor, crew, and commissioning committee at a public ceremony, the release states.
Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com.
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