U.S Navy Christens Arleigh-Burke Class Destroyer USS George M. Neal After Korean War Veteran

Navy ship honors sailor from famed North Korea rescue mission

The future destroyer USS George M. Neal pays tribute to a heroic sailor who volunteered for a dangerous mission to rescue a downed aviator.

Navy christens Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyer after Korean War hero

The U.S. Navy on Saturday christened the future USS George M. Neal (DDG 131), the fourth Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyer to be built by Huntington Ingalls Industries Inc.William Toti, performing the duties of the under secretary of the Navy, presided over the ceremony in Pascagoula, Mississippi. Toti assumed the role after Hung Cao became acting Navy secretary following John Phelan’s removal in late April.“The future USS George M. Neal …

U.S Navy Christens Arleigh-Burke Class Destroyer USS George M. Neal After Korean War Veteran

The ship is named for Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class George M. Neal, a Korean War veteran and Navy Cross recipient.

Navy christens future USS George M. Neal, named for Korean War hero

The ship is named for George M. Neal, who was awarded the Navy Cross for his heroism during a search-and-rescue mission over North Korea in 1951.

Navy Christens Future USS George M. Neal

JULY 13, 2026 —The U.S. Navy christened the future USS George M. Neal (DDG 131) during a ceremony at Huntington Ingalls Industries Inc. (HII) Shipbuilding on Saturday, July 11, at 9 a.m. CDT. The principal address was delivered by William Toti, performing the duties of the Undersecretary of the Navy. “The future USS George M. Neal honors a legacy of extraordinary courage and sacrifice,” said Toti. “As we christen this ship, we mark another step …