Community Corner

USS Somerset Was Commissioned, Ship Honors 9/11 Victims

USS Somerset was named in honor of the 40 crew members and passengers on United Flight 93, who attempted to regain control of the plane after it was hijacked on 9/11.

The Navy's latest amphibious transport dock, which will be homeported in San Diego, was commissioned Saturday in a ceremony in Philadelphia, officials said.

USS Somerset was named in honor of the 40 crew members and passengers on United Flight 93, who attempted to regain control of the plane after it was hijacked on 9/11. The plane crashed into a field near Shanksville in Somerset County, Penn., killing the 33 passengers, seven crew members and the four hijackers.

"We are here today to not only honor and pay tribute to the heroes of United Flight 93, but also to celebrate the commissioning of this great ship USS Somerset. Somerset will leave a legacy that will never be forgotten by those wishing to do harm to this country," Commanding Officer Capt. Thomas L. Dearborn said. "A ship is but a steel vessel, it is the crew that brings the ship to life. USS Somerset is truly a fine warship and the crew that mans her is second to none."

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The commissioning capped off a week-long celebration honoring the ship, its crew and the legacy of Flight 93's passengers and crew, Navy officials said.

Gen. James F. Amos, commandant of the Marine Corps, gave the principal address, officials said.

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"When this ship sails the world's oceans, she will carry the spirit and determination and the fighting spirit that has always defined America," Amos said.

—City News Service


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