The USS John Murtha, named after the longtime Johnstown Congressman, will be the Navy ship on hand in the Pacific Ocean to recover the Orion Astronauts when they are set to splash down Friday at the completion of the Artemis Two mission.
The Murtha will be the primary recovery ship, with Sea Hawk helicopters tracking the capsule during its descent, recovery of the capsule, and then a specialized dive team will be on standby for any medical assistance.
“It is a fitting tribute to Congressman Murtha, who dedicated his life to serving our nation, that the ship bearing his name will be integral to this historic moment in space exploration,” said Capt. Erik Kenny, commanding officer of John P. Murtha. “He was a champion for our military and a visionary. We are honored to carry on his legacy by supporting NASA and the Artemis II mission.”
Murtha served in the US Marines for more than 35 years.
USS John Murtha in the Indian Ocean
