USS Beloit prepares for launch, City of Beloit filled with pride
By: Jerel Ballard Apr 18, 2024 Updated Apr 18, 2024
The announcement of the ship’s name came a few years ago, but now, after months of preparation, the USS Beloit is ready to embark on its maiden voyage. The vessel holds special significance as it will be the first commissioned ship in naval service bearing the name of Beloit, Wisconsin.
BELOIT, Wis. (WKOW) — The city of Beloit is set to make waves this summer as a Navy combat ship named after it prepares to set sail for the first time.
The announcement of the ship’s name came a few years ago, but now, after months of preparation, the USS Beloit is ready to embark on its maiden voyage. The vessel holds special significance as it will be the first commissioned ship in naval service bearing the name of Beloit, Wisconsin.
USS Beloit
“We are getting ready to bring a warship to life, and it’s a privilege to get to commission a warship. Not everyone in the Navy gets to do that,” said Commander LeAndra Kissinger.
Commander Kissinger, who will lead the ship’s crew, shared her thoughts with 27 News during her recent visit to the town. Traveling to Wisconsin and preparing for the ship’s departure has been very meaningful for her and her crew.
“Our crew must understand and embraces the values and spirit of this city,” added Kissinger. “Several members have already visited Beloit to immerse themselves in the culture.”
City officials have been preparing for the ship’s departure, organizing events to showcase Beloit’s contributions to the US Navy. As the USS Beloit prepares to sail, it symbolizes not just a vessel of war but a bridge between a city’s legacy and the nation’s maritime.
“This community has had a long history of supporting the military through Fairbanks Morse defense and they make many of the engines that go in Navy ships and they had significant support during World War II, said Sarah Lock, Director of Strategic Communications for the City of Beloit. “For a town of under 37,000 people, to have our name on a Navy ship around the world is incredible.”
USS Beloit is currently located in the Great Lakes and will depart along Lake Michigan before the end of the year. Beloit city officials plan to hold several send-off ceremonies for the community once a date is determined.
