Mobile to Host Commissioning of USS INDEPENDENCE

Mar 3rd, 2008

In the midst of the major announcement of Mobile winning the tanker contract with the Air Force, the US Navy has is also making news for the Port City.

The city and county of Mobile, along with Austal and the Navy League, are pleased to announce plans for the upcoming commissioning of the USS INDEPENDENCE. According to officials this is the first ship to be both built and commissioned in Mobile, AL. Events that will take place in Mobile this year leading up to the commissioning include the launch, christening, crew arrival and crew delivery. The commissioning ceremony is currently projected to occur in April 2009.

"This is a rare feat, and one that each of us should be proud of," said Mayor Jones. "Not only does Mobile boast a tremendous workforce, capable of building this great ship but we are also a premier destination for such a grand event as its commissioning."

With 2000+ people expected to attend, the commissioning celebration for the USS INDEPENDENCE will have a positive economic impact for Mobile. According to Dr. Semoon Chang, director of the Center for Business & Economic Research at the University of South Alabama, “an event of 2,000 – 3,000 people, with about half coming from out of town, would have a direct impact of about $250,000 on the local economy. Further, if Austal gets contracts for 50 plus more ships, it would be huge for Mobile and command the development of a specific economic impact study.”

About the LCS 2 and USS INDEPENDENCE

The US Navy's Littoral Combat Ship is a new generation high speed warship designed to carry out a range of operations including mine countermeasures, anti-submarine warfare and the prosecution of surface attack craft in the near-shore (littoral) environment. The LCS 2 design offers superior seakeeping (rough weather capabilities) and a voluminous internal mission deck with a high payload carrying capacity. Above this is an enormous flight deck capable of handling and hangaring two H-60 helicopters or operating the largest helicopter in the naval inventory, the H-53.

The Mobile Council, Navy League is dedicated to making this commissioning event a memorable experience for both the crew of the USS INDEPENDENCE and all who attend this unique ceremony. Any donations to support this event will be much appreciated. Please make checks out to: Mobile Council, Navy League Commissioning Committee.
Send to:

Mr Yuell Busey, Treasurer
Mobile Council Navy League Commissioning Committee
c/o Smith, Dukes & Buckalew, LLP
One Maison Building
3800 Airport Boulevard
Mobile, AL 36608