As we prepare to christen George M. Neal (DDG 131) on July 11, we celebrate not only the ship Ingalls shipbuilders have built, but the remarkable American hero whose name this destroyer will proudly carry. Neal’s story of courage, resilience and devotion to duty embodies the very spirit that guides the work of our shipyard.
George Milton Neal was born on August 29, 1930, in Springfield, Ohio. He faced hardship early—losing both parents during childhood—but he forged ahead with determination. After high school, he entered the U.S. Navy, later completing his diploma when he returned home.
Serving as an Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class (AM3) with Helicopter Utility Squadron ONE (HU‑1), Neal became one of the early African‑American Navy air‑crewmen to participate in combat search‑and‑rescue operations. During the Korean War, he operated from the Australian ship HMAS Sydney, supporting frontline missions at a time when helicopter rescue was still a pioneering and extraordinarily risky field.
On July 3, 1951, Neal volunteered for a daring rescue mission deep in the mountains of North Korea. Marine Corps Capt. James Wilkins had been shot down behind enemy lines, and the rescue helicopter—piloted by Navy Lt. (j.g.) John Kelvin Koelsch—would receive no fighter cover due to weather and fading daylight. The danger was extreme; Neal stepped forward anyway.
Under heavy enemy fire, Neal repeatedly exposed himself while lowering the rescue sling to the wounded Marine. Just as he lifted Wilkins toward the aircraft, enemy rounds disabled the helicopter, forcing it to crash. Neal then helped Koelsch and the gravely injured Wilkins evade enemy forces for nine days before the group was captured. Neal remained a prisoner of war until 1952.
For his heroism, Neal was awarded the Navy Cross, which praised his unflagging endurance, courage under fire and unwavering commitment to his fellow servicemen. His actions reflected bravery far beyond the call of duty—and helped shape the legacy of early helicopter rescue operations. Lt. (j.g.) Koelsch was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
When Neal returned home, he resumed his life in Springfield, Ohio, earned his high school diploma and built a decades-long career as a postman. He passed away on December 1, 2016, and is interred at Arlington National Cemetery.
His legacy now expands with the Arleigh Burke–class destroyer that bears his name—a symbol of valor, perseverance and service to others.
As we prepare to christen DDG 131, George M. Neal’s story reminds us why our work matters. His life represents voluntary heroism, resilience in the face of overwhelming danger and the strength of teamwork. The ship that carries his name will project those values across the globe, supported by the craftsmanship, dedication and pride of every Ingalls shipbuilder.