Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced that two upcoming Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers will be named USS William J. Clinton (CVN 82) and USS George W. Bush (CVN 83). This marks the first time these former U.S. presidents have been honored with naval vessels bearing their names.
Del Toro praised both presidents for their leadership during some of the U.S.’s most challenging moments, stating that their legacies will live on through these aircraft carriers, which will serve as key platforms for national security.
President Clinton’s military legacy includes successful operations like Uphold Democracy and Allied Force, as well as the largest U.S. naval deployment since Vietnam during the Taiwan Straits Crisis. Chelsea Clinton, his daughter, will serve as the sponsor for CVN 82.
"I’m honored that future servicemembers carrying on that proud tradition will serve on a carrier bearing my name,” said former President Bill Clinton.
President Bush’s military contributions include leading the nation after the 9/11 attacks and creating the Department of Homeland Security. His tenure also saw significant increases in defense spending for military modernization.
“I am honored that my name will be associated with the United States Navy and a symbol of our Nation’s might,” said former President George W. Bush. “I have a special admiration for the men and women of our Navy – including my dad – and ask God to watch over this ship and those who sail aboard her.”
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III emphasized that the new carriers would be integral to America’s naval forces, able to project power and deliver combat capability globally.
CVN 82 and CVN 83 will complete the U.S. Navy's six-ship Ford-class aircraft carrier program, following USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and USS John F. Kennedy (CVN 79).
