The Navy’s newest destroyer, the future USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr., arrived at its home port, Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, March 20, ahead of its commissioning ceremony, scheduled for April 11.
The warship’s namesake, retired Marine Corps Col. Harvey Curtiss Barnum Jr., a Medal of Honor recipient, was on the pier to welcome the ship and its crew.
“To be on the pier and welcome this incredible crew to their new home port is monumental,” Barnum said. “This warship represents the enduring bond between the Marine Corps and the Navy, and I have the utmost confidence in the crew to carry on the legacy of service and courage that defines our naval forces. I look forward to seeing them ‘bring her to life’ and join the fleet.”
The destroyer is the first ship to bear Barnum’s name. It honors his gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life beyond the call of duty during the Vietnam War.
On Dec. 18, 1965, then-1st Lt. Barnum assumed command of his company after the commander was mortally wounded. With two helicopters under his control, he moved fearlessly through deadly fire to lead air attacks against the enemy’s well-entrenched positions while directing one platoon in a successful counterattack on the key positions.…