TRADITION & HONOR
THE ESSENCE OF COMMISSIONING
The commissioning ceremony is the final act that transitions a new ship into the active fleet. It is a time-honored tradition that emphasizes the vessel's readiness, the authority of its commanding officer, and the vital role the ship will play in supporting our national security and the families of those who serve.
Photo by: Lt. Frederick Martin / U.S. Navy / DVIDS
UPCOMING COMMISSIONING EVENTS
USS Thomas G. Kelly (DDG-140)
IN PLANNING
Boston, MA
USS Bougainville (LHA-8)
In Planning
Boston, MA
COMMISSIONING LEGACY
Explore the Massachusetts Bay Council’s proud legacy of ship commissionings. Over the years, we have sponsored and supported a distinguished list of vessels, each representing a lasting contribution to our nation’s sea services and maritime strength.
USS NANTUCKET (LCS-27)
16 NOVEMER 2024
An Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ship designed for high-speed, near-shore operations including surface warfare, mine countermeasures, and maritime security missions.
An Arleigh Burke–class guided-missile destroyer named for the Medal of Honor recipient and Massachusetts native, Thomas Hudner, delivering advanced naval power across air, surface, and subsurface domains.
1 DECEMBER 2015
USS THOMAS HUDNER (DDG-116)
USCGC JAMES
(WMSL-754)
8 AUGUST 2015
A Legend-class National Security Cutter serving as a flagship of the Coast Guard’s fleet, supporting homeland security, law enforcement, and search and rescue missions.
USS SAMPSON
(DDG-102)
3 NOVEMBER 2007
An Arleigh Burke–class guided-missile destroyer built for multi-mission warfare, providing air defense, anti-submarine, and surface combat capabilities.
USS PREBLE
(DDG-88)
9 NOVEMBER 2002
An Arleigh Burke–class guided-missile destroyer equipped for integrated air and missile defense, as well as anti-submarine and surface warfare operations.
An Arleigh Burke–class guided-missile destroyer named for Vice Admiral Lawson P. Ramage, specializing in precision strike, air defense, and maritime security missions
USS RAMAGE
(DDG-61)
22 JULY 1995
SUPPORT THE USS BOUGAINVILLE
The commissioning of the USS Bougainville is a historic milestone. Your support through merchandise purchases and direct donations plays a vital role in funding commissioning events and providing essential support for our sailors and their families throughout the ship's transition into the fleet.