Home » Blog » Who names navy ships?

Who names navy ships?

Who Names Navy Ships?

Naming a navy ship is a significant event in the world of naval tradition and protocol. It is a symbol of national pride and a tribute to the crew who will serve on the vessel. But who decides on the name of these mighty ships? In this article, we will explore the history and process of naming navy ships, including the who, what, and why behind this crucial decision.

History of Navy Ship Names

Bulk Ammo for Sale at Lucky Gunner

The practice of naming navy ships dates back to ancient times, when navies were powered by oars and sails. In ancient Greece and Rome, warships were often named after gods, mythological creatures, and significant events. This tradition has continued through the centuries, with ship names reflecting a mix of national pride, cultural heritage, and historical significance.

The US Navy’s Approach

In the United States, the Navy has its own set of guidelines for naming ships. According to the Navy’s Dictionary of United States Naval Terminology, "the President of the United States or the Secretary of the Navy has the final authority" in naming new ships.

Who Is Involved in Naming a Navy Ship?

In the US Navy, several individuals and organizations are involved in the naming process:

President of the United States: The President is the commander-in-chief of the Navy and has the ultimate authority to name ships.
Secretary of the Navy: The Secretary of the Navy is the chief administrator of the Navy and provides guidance on naming conventions and protocols.
Name Selection Committee: A committee consisting of high-ranking naval officers, naval historians, and other subject matter experts reviews and selects potential names for new ships.
Congress: While not directly involved in the naming process, Congress is informed and must approve funding for the construction of new ships.
Local Communities and Interest Groups: In some cases, local communities, cities, and interest groups may submit nominations for potential ship names in recognition of local heroes or significant events.

Key Considerations in Naming a Navy Ship

When considering potential ship names, several key factors are taken into account:

Heritage: Names that reflect the history and heritage of the US Navy, its ships, or its personnel.
Cultural Significance: Names that honor significant events, people, or traditions that are culturally relevant.
Morale and Tradition: Names that foster esprit de corps among the crew and reflect the Navy’s tradition of service and sacrifice.
Availability: A check of existing ship names to ensure that the selected name is not already in use.
Approval: Approval from the Navy’s Commandant and Secretary of Defense.

International Comparisons

Other naval forces also have their own approaches to naming ships, with variations in protocol and tradition. For example:

Royal Navy (UK): The Queen or First Lord of the Admiralty names Royal Navy ships, with input from the Defence Council and Cabinet.
Royal Canadian Navy (Canada): The Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Canadian Navy, or the Minister of National Defence, names Royal Canadian Navy ships.
French Navy (France): The President of the French Republic or the Chief of Naval Staff names French Navy ships.

Timeline of Significant Navy Ship Name Changes

Here is a table of significant changes in the Navy’s ship naming conventions and protocols:

YearChange
1785Names of Navy ships begin to reflect patriotic themes and mythological references.
1920sThe Navy introduces a set of rules governing ship names, with an emphasis on historical and cultural significance.
1960sThe Navy adopts a new naming convention emphasizing the selection of names with a strong military or naval tradition.
2010sThe Navy updates its naming guidelines to include considerations for diversity and inclusion in ship names.

Conclusion

Naming a navy ship is a thoughtful and deliberative process, involving key stakeholders and subject matter experts. While different navies have their own approaches and traditions, the common goal is to choose a name that reflects the values, culture, and history of the naval force, while also inspiring pride and morale among the crew.

Enhance Your Knowledge with Curated Videos on Guns and Accessories


Leave a Comment