Ceremony for launching USS Wisconsin's keel incites joint cheer and demonstrations
In North Kingstown, Rhode Island, the ceremony for the official start of construction for the U.S. Navy's newest ballistic missile submarine, the USS Wisconsin SSBN 827, took place at General Dynamics Electric Boat's Quonset Point facility. Dr. Kelly Geurts, a retired educator with a career spanning over three decades, led the event as the submarine's keel authenticator.
Dr. Geurts, a core member and passionate supporter of the USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Association, expressed her profound honour to serve as the ship's sponsor. CAPT Jim Harvey, USN (Ret), the Association President, shared his delight about Dr. Geurts assuming the role.
The USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Association aims to connect Wisconsin citizens to their namesake submarine, promote naval history, educational initiatives, and the Silent Service's vital mission. The Association also sponsors various events, such as Keel Laying Watch Parties held in Wisconsin and Virginia, which unfortunately were met with protests.
Protestors gathered outside the Wisconsin Veteran's Museum in Madison, calling for an end to the celebration of nuclear weapons and preparations for nuclear war. Amy Schulz, president of the Physicians For Social Responsibility-Wisconsin, expressed her disapproval of the submarine's construction, calling it a terrible waste of tax dollars.
However, the Association has educational initiatives and aims to promote naval history and the Silent Service's vital mission. More information about the USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Association can be found on their website.
The event was significant, marking the beginning of the submarine's construction. "USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 Day" was proclaimed by Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, and was read at the ceremony by Grace Stanke, Miss America 2023 and Miss Wisconsin 2022.
It's worth noting that there is no relevant information available about Dr. Geurts' background or previous role before becoming a Keel Authenticator for the USS Wisconsin SSBN 827 in the provided search results.
While the construction of the submarine has been met with protests, the ceremony marked an important step in the journey of the USS Wisconsin SSBN 827. The Association continues to strive towards connecting Wisconsin citizens to their namesake submarine and promoting naval history and education.
