USS William Charette Destroyer Christened at Bath Iron Works in Maine

The U.S. Navy’s newest Arleigh Burke-class Flight III destroyer, USS William Charette (DDG-130), was christened at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, with the hero’s daughters and senior officials in attendance.

General Dynamics Bath Iron Works held a christening ceremony on August 1 for the U.S. Navy’s 43rd Arleigh Burke-class Flight III destroyer, USS William Charette (DDG-130), honoring Korean War hero and Medal of Honor recipient William R. Charette. The event drew over 1,500 shipyard workers, their families and dignitaries such as Governor Janet Mills, Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao, and Medal of Honor Society representative retired Colonel Harvey C. Barnum.

Four of Charette’s daughters—Michael, Margaret Ann, Kathryn and Laura—stood beside the ship as it received its name and sponsor. President Charles F. Krugh highlighted the vessel’s motto “Valor in Service” and the shipyard’s “Best Built” promise. After christening, DDG-130 will be fitted out and conduct sea trials in late 2027 or early 2028, with its formal commissioning date yet to be set. Bath Iron Works is simultaneously constructing at least four other Flight III destroyers, continuing the modernization of the Navy’s surface fleet.