USS Texas (SSN-775)

USS "Texas" (SSN-775) is a "Virginia"-class submarine, and the fourth ship of the United States Navy to be named in honor of The Lone Star State.

The contract to build her was awarded to the Northrop Grumman Newport News shipyard (then called Newport News Shipbuilding & Drydock Co.) in Newport News, Virginia on 30 September 1998 and her keel was laid down on 12 July 2002.cite web
title = Laura Bush Authenticates Keel For The Virginia-Class Submarine Texas (SSN 775) at Northrop Grumman's Newport News Sector
url=http://www.nn.northropgrumman.com/news/2002/020712_ngnn_lays_keel_of_virginia_class.pdf
accessdate = 2007-12-08 ] She was christened on 31 July 2004 by Laura Bush, First Lady of the United States.cite web
title = Laura Bush Christens Texas Submarine at Northrop Grumman
url=http://www.nn.northropgrumman.com/news/2004/040731_texas_christening.html
accessdate = 2007-12-08 ] She was launched into the James River on 9 April 2005.cite web
title = Northrop Grumman Successfully Launches Virginia-Class Submarine Texas
url=http://www.nn.northropgrumman.com/news/2005/050411_news.html
accessdate = 2007-12-08 ]

Under the command of Captain John Litherland, "Texas" arrived at Galveston Bay on 4 September 2006 and was escorted into the harbor by "Elissa". "Texas" was commissioned in Galveston, Texas and joined the U.S. Atlantic Fleet on 9 September 2006.cite web
title = First Lady Laura Bush Welcomes USS Texas To The Fleet
url=http://www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=25500
accessdate = 2007-12-09 ] In 2009 "Texas" will be moved to a new home port in Pearl Harbor.Fact|date=February 2008

Ship's crest

"In the forefront is a full view of "Texas", ready to go forth and take the fight to the enemy. Emblazoned on her hull is the shape of the state of Texas, denoting the outstanding patriotism and leadership the citizens of Texas have contributed to the American nation. Located within the state outline is a symbol of the atom, representing the awesome warfighting capability and endurance afforded "Texas" by nuclear power.

"Texas" is backed by the traditional badge of the legendary Texas Rangers. This identifies the singularity of purpose between the men who enforce Texas law and the sailors who will man this fine warship to preserve freedom. The four white stars represent the four American warships to bear the name of the great state of Texas. "Don't Mess With Texas" is a well known state slogan and a warning for those who attempt to prevent "Texas" from carrying out her mission. The battle scarred lone star flag flying behind "Texas" represents the gallant heroism of those who fought and died at the Alamo to ensure the future of Texas, and it also represents the perseverance with which "Texas" and her crew will endure through all missions that are put before her."

Gallery

= References =

External links

* [http://www.usstexas.org USS Texas (SSN-775) Home Page]
* [http://www.usstexas.info USS Texas (SSN-775) Polish Home Page]
* [http://www.subsim.com/articles/article_usstexas1.php Galveston Welcomes Submarine Texas Skipper]
* [http://www.subsim.com/articles/article_usstexas2.php At Sea on Navy Sub Texas]
* [http://origin.eastbaymedia.com/%7Ewebcast/asx/texas/player-hi.html USS Texas (SSN-775) Commissioning Ceremony] (streaming video)"No longer available"
*NVR