Message to USS Hawaii ceremony in North Kingstown, Rhode Island

Message to USS Hawaii ceremony in North Kingstown, Rhode Island

August 27, 2004

Honolulu, Hawaii - Congressman Ed Case sent the following message to the keel-laying ceremony for the attack submarine USS Hawaii on Friday, August 27, 2004 in North Kingstown, Rhode Island:

"Senator Chafee, Senator Reid, Congressman Langevin, Congressman Simmons, Governor Lingle, Governor Carcieri, Admiral Bowman, Vice Admiral Donald, flag officers, distinguished guests, fellow citizens:

"On behalf of all of the people of our Fiftieth State, and especially of my great Second District, mahalo for the opportunity to participate in this keel laying ceremony for the USS Hawai'i. I regret that I cannot attend personally; please know that we are all with you in our thoughts.

"We are deeply and fiercely proud that this magnificent boat will bear the name and carry the spirit of our island home. In a time of overall transition and transformation for the Navy and of evolution in our national defense challenge, Hawai'i and her Virginia-class family-Virginia, Texas, and North Carolina-will ensure that we meet our obligations and accomplish our mission to the fullest extent of our capability.

"The USS Hawai'i's motto, K?pale '?ina-Defend the Land, is just as relevant to what she and we must and will do today and tomorrow as it was to the ancient Hawaiians whose efforts, together with all of our forebearers, gave rise to her. Please know that wherever the Hawai'i may go and whatever she may do, she will be in the hearts and prayers of her namesake home always.

"To the people of Rhode Island who will build and launch her, and to the officers and crew who will sail her, we say mahalo, aloha and Godspeed!"