Additional Coverage:
- US Navy’s new amphibious warship honors post-9/11 Marine killed in Iraq, carrying on his legacy (newsbreak.com)
A new US Navy warship will be named after a fallen Marine, 1st Lieutenant Travis Manion, who was killed in action in Iraq. The USS Travis Manion will be a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock.
The announcement was made at the US Naval Academy, Manion’s alma mater. The Travis Manion Foundation, which connects veterans and youth, also participated in the event.
Former Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro emphasized the ship represents the combined strength of the Navy and Marine Corps. He said the USS Travis Manion symbolizes courage and selfless service.
Manion’s family expressed their pride in the honor. His sister, Ryan Manion, noted the significance of the naming for both her brother’s legacy and the post-9/11 generation of service members. This is only the fifth ship named after a post-9/11 service member.
Manion came from a Marine family. His father is a retired colonel and his niece is currently a midshipman at the Naval Academy.
After graduating from the Naval Academy in 2004, Manion deployed to Iraq twice. He was killed in April 2007 while rescuing injured comrades during an ambush. His sister said his actions saved the lives of his entire patrol.
The USS Travis Manion will transport Marines, equipment, aircraft, and assault vehicles for various missions. Ryan Manion shared her brother’s pride in knowing the ship would carry future generations of service members.
The Travis Manion Foundation, founded by Manion’s mother, supports veterans, provides leadership programs, and offers character education and mentorship opportunities. The foundation’s motto, “If not me, then who?”, reflects Manion’s commitment to service and inspires continued service within the veteran community and beyond.