Christening a ship is a revered tradition in the United States Navy, and while COVID-19 precautions will be in place, a christening at Ingalls Shipbuilding is still an event with no comparison. Masks will be required and social distancing will be in place.
The christening ceremony represents a major milestone in the ship’s life. By bringing together the shipbuilders and community members, the crew, and the sponsor, the audience is treated to a display of patriotism and excitement for the future contributions of the ship to the U.S. Navy.
On Saturday, April 24, Ingalls Shipbuilding will celebrate the christening of its 34th Arleigh Burke-class Aegis guided missile destroyer Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee (DDG 123) built by Ingalls Shipbuilding. Those unable to watch the event in person, are invited to watch the livestream beginning at 6:15 CDT on Saturday, April 24. Visit and bookmark the livestream page.
The ship is named in honor of Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee, superintendent of the Navy Nurse Corps during WWI and first female recipient of the Navy Cross. Read more about Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee
Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee (DDG 123) is the 34th DDG 51-class destroyer built by Ingalls Shipbuilding. Read more about our destroyers.
DDG 123 will be christened simultaneously by three sponsors, Ms. Louisa Dixon, Ms. Virginia Munford, and Ms. R. Pickett Wilson. Read more about DDG 123’s sponsors.
For the safety of our sponsors and guests, the bottle of sparkling wine is encased in sheetmetal by shipbuilders and then wrapped in decorative red, white and blue ribbons.
For more information or to request an invitation:
Call (228) 935-1256 or email the Special Events team.
