The U.S. Navy proudly commissioned its latest Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer, the USS Carl M. Levin (DDG 120), in a ceremony held in Baltimore, Maryland. The ship’s commissioning ceremony, which took place at 10:00 a.m. EDT on Saturday, June 24, celebrated the distinguished legacy of Senator Carl M. Levin, a staunch supporter of the armed services during his 36 years in the U.S. Senate.
Honorable Carlos Del Toro, Secretary of the Navy, delivered the principal address at the commissioning ceremony, paying tribute to Senator Levin’s remarkable contributions. Among the distinguished guests were Admiral Michael Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations; Honorable Justin Williams, deputy mayor of the City of Baltimore; and Mr. Charles F. Krugh, president of General Dynamics Bath Iron Works.
The USS Carl M. Levin, named after the late senator, will join the prestigious fleet of Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. Senator Levin served in the U.S. Senate from 1979 to 2015 and played a pivotal role as Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Armed Services. His commitment to the armed forces made him a highly respected advocate for national security.
With a length of 509.5 feet, a width of 59 feet, and a displacement of 9,496 tons, the USS Carl M. Levin boasts impressive specifications. Configured as a Flight IIA destroyer, it is equipped with advanced capabilities for power projection, rapid response, high firepower, and enhanced electronic countermeasures to counter air threats effectively.
Following the commissioning ceremony, the USS Carl M. Levin will be homeported at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, marking its place as the 72nd commissioned Arleigh Burke-class destroyer. The DDG 51 program, to which the ship belongs, also has 17 additional ships currently under contract.
The significance of the USS Carl M. Levin extends beyond its namesake and specifications. As the ship’s sponsors, Senator Levin’s daughters, Kate Levin Markel, Erica Levin, and Laura Levin, added a personal touch to the commissioning ceremony. Their presence underscored the ship’s deep connection to their father’s lifelong dedication to public service and the armed forces.
The commissioning of the USS Carl M. Levin reflects the U.S. Navy’s commitment to maintaining a strong and modern fleet capable of meeting evolving national security challenges. This Arleigh Burke-class destroyer will contribute to power projection, defense, and anti-air warfare operations, bolstering the Navy’s capabilities across the globe.
In addition to its operational role, the USS Carl M. Levin will serve as a symbol of honor and remembrance, embodying the values and dedication of its namesake. Senator Levin’s tireless efforts to support the armed services have left an indelible mark on Michigan and the nation as a whole.
As the USS Carl M. Levin sets sail from Baltimore to its homeport at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, it will carry with it a legacy of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the security of the United States. The ship’s commissioning signifies not only the addition of a formidable naval asset but also a tribute to the remarkable career of Senator Carl M. Levin.
The U.S. Navy continues to invest in the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer program, with the USS Carl M. Levin as the latest addition. The steadfast dedication of individuals like Senator Levin ensures that the armed services have the support and resources necessary to safeguard the nation’s interests.
