The DDG 123 test team starts the first generator, from right, test engineer Caleb Johnston, operator Stevi Conroy, electrician Joshua Thompson and outside machinist Keenum Dawson.
Days after the ship was christened, Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee (DDG 123) achieved a milestone with the light-off of the first of her three generators.
"Generator light-off represents planning and quality craftsmanship by everyone since the start of the ship’s foundation," said Buck Rodgers, DDG 123 construction manager. "Our shipbuilders have once again met a challenge to reach this milestone."
The gas turbine generators have increased power to meet the needs of upgrades for the destroyer.
After all other crafts have done their part, it is up to the Test team to conduct final checks of the generators and integrated systems.
"Our team worked diligently over long-hours and weekends to make this a success," said Jeff Varnadoe, Test and Trials foreman. "We look forward to starting the two remaining generators in coming weeks."