Statement on Naming a Guided Missile Destroyer in Honor of the Late Senator John H. Chafee

Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents, Nov 8, 1999

October 30, 1999

I am honored to announce today that the 40th ship of the Arleigh Burke class of guided missile destroyers will be named in honor of the late Senator John H. Chafee of Rhode Island. Senator Chafee distinguished himself throughout a life dedicated to serving our Nation as a United States Senator, as Secretary of the Navy, as Governor of Rhode Island, and as a United States Marine in World War II and the Korean war. Given Senator Chafee's long association with the sea--with the Marine Corps, the Navy, and the great maritime State of Rhode Island-- I can think of no better way to honor his many contributions than to name a warship in his honor.

The ship named in honor of Senator Chafee will be one of the most technologically advanced ships in the United States Navy. It will be capable of performing a wide range of missions in support of U.S. national security. Whether showing the flag in peacetime to build good will with other nations or employing its potent combat power in conflict, the ship will carry on Senator Chafee's legacy of honorable service to our Nation.