Naval Destroyer to be Named After Senator Inouye

US Sen. Daniel Inouye, Maui memorial service. File photo by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

The Department of Defense today announced that the Navy will name an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer after the late US Senator Daniel K. Inouye.

The USS Daniel Inouye will posthumously honor the former senator who was a World War II veteran, a recipient of the Medal of Honor, the second longest serving senator in history, and the third in line for presidential succession.

Senator Brian Schatz responded to the news in a media statement saying, “The naming of this destroyer appropriately honors his life and dedication to service during Pearl Harbor, World War II, and throughout his 58 years in elected office serving the state of Hawaii. Senator Inouye represents what it means to be a public servant and Hawaii should be proud of this great honor provided by the Navy.”

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard also released a statement today saying, “Senator Inouye inspired us all by his lifelong dedication to the service of the people of Hawai‘i and our country. It is only fitting that we honor and memorialize his legacy.”

She continued saying, “For decades to come, the USS Daniel Inouye will bear the name of one of our most distinguished soldiers from our greatest generation and will serve as a constant reminder of Hawaii’s own iconic American hero. I thank the US Navy for their recognition of Senator Inouye’s great commitment to our armed forces and our country.”

The announcement was made by Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus in a press release calling Sen. Inouye “a true American hero.”

He said, for decades to come, the future USS Daniel Inouye will, “represent the United States and enable the building of partnerships and projection of power around the world.”

The Department of Defense announcement notes that the destroyer will be more than 500-feet long, with a contract award to the building yard pending.