How are Navy Ships Named?
Naming a ship is a significant and historic tradition in the naval industry. Each ship’s name is a reflection of its purpose, mission, or the person or event it is named after. The process of naming a navy ship is rigorous and involves a combination of tradition, innovation, and careful consideration.
Historical Background
The tradition of naming navy ships dates back to the early days of naval warfare. In the 18th century, ships were often named after their builder, captain, or sponsor. This practice continued throughout the centuries, with some ships being named after royalty, mythical creatures, or even goddesses. Today, the process of naming a navy ship is guided by a set of regulations and guidelines.
Navy Ship Naming Guidelines
The US Navy, for example, has a strict set of guidelines for naming its ships. According to the US Navy’s Navigation and Operations Policy Manual, the following criteria are considered when naming a ship:
- Honor or Commemoration: The ship is named after a person, place, or event that is significant to the US Navy or the country.
- Battle Honors: The ship is named after a notable battle or campaign in which the US Navy was involved.
- Ship Classification: The ship is classified as a destroyer, cruiser, aircraft carrier, or other type of vessel, which determines its name.
- Letter and Number System: The ship’s name is followed by a series of letters and numbers, which indicate its class and hull number.
Types of Navy Ship Names
Navy ships can be named in various ways, including:
- Person-to-Person Names: Named after a person, such as a historical figure, a naval officer, or a politician.
- Places: Named after a location, such as a city, state, or region.
- Events: Named after a significant event, such as a battle, a campaign, or a historic occasion.
- Attributes: Named after a characteristic or attribute, such as speed, agility, or strength.
Examples of Navy Ship Names
Here are some examples of navy ship names, categorized by type:
| Person-to-Person Names | Places | Events | Attributes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USS Lincoln (CVN-72) – named after President Abraham Lincoln | USS San Antonio (LPD-17) – named after the city of San Antonio | USS Midway (CV-41) – named after the Battle of Midway | USS Speed (AP-113) – named after the ship’s speed |
| USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) – named after the 35th President | USS Indianapolis (CA-35) – named after the city of Indianapolis | USS Pearl Harbor (LHD-3) – named after the Pearl Harbor attack | USS Defiant (AP-140) – named after the ship’s determination |
Other Considerations
In addition to the guidelines and criteria mentioned above, other factors are considered when naming a navy ship, including:
- Uniqueness: The name must be unique and not already in use by another ship or organization.
- Availability: The name must be available and not already reserved for future use.
- Sound and Visual Appeal: The name must have a positive sound and visual appeal.
Conclusion
Naming a navy ship is a complex and deliberate process that involves a combination of tradition, innovation, and careful consideration. From person-to-person names to places and events, navy ships are named to reflect their purpose, mission, or the person or event they are named after. By understanding the guidelines and criteria for naming a navy ship, we can appreciate the significance and importance of this tradition in the naval industry.
