At Ingalls, every weld tells a story. But for structural welder Robert Lee, one weld will always stand out and connect him to a ship, a family and a legacy of service.
Robert, who has worked at Ingalls for nearly 10 years, was selected to weld the initials of DDG 133’s namesake, Senator Sam Nunn, and his daughter Michelle Nunn, the ship’s sponsor, onto the ship’s keel plate.
For Robert, this ship symbolizes the bond between U.S. servicemembers and the shipbuilders who craft the vessels that protect them.
“I’m excited to be a part of the keel laying,” said Robert. “We want to make sure that the Sailors and Marines who will serve on these ships have something they can rely on, something they can trust while they’re out there protecting our freedom.”
Robert currently works in the Outfitting Hall, and while he takes great pride in the quality of his work, it’s the camaraderie among his fellow shipbuilders that makes him love his job the most.
“The thing I like most about working here is the brotherhood and sisterhood,” Robert said. “We take care of each other, we work well together, and we make sure we put out a good product. Everyone has each other’s back, and that makes a huge difference in the work we do.”
Being chosen to take part in the keel laying of DDG 133 has deepened his connection to the shipbuilding community and to a legacy that extends beyond the work he does.
“It’s a real honor to be a part of something like this,” said Robert. “It’s not just about the work; it’s about being part of something bigger than yourself.”
For Robert, every weld is more than just a mark on steel. It’s a contribution to a lasting legacy of excellence, dedication and service — one that he, his family and Ingalls Shipbuilding will continue to uphold for years to come.
Click here to read more about the keel authentication ceremony of Sam Nunn (DDG 133) here: Ingalls authenticates keel of destroyer Sam Nunn (DDG 133)