Built by shipbuilders. Named for a hero. Ready to serve the warfighter.
The christening of George M. Neal (DDG 131) was a chance to celebrate the ship’s namesake and the ongoing work happening to bring her to life.
The destroyer is named for Korean War veteran Aviation Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class George M. Neal, who was awarded the Navy Cross for volunteering to help rescue a downed Marine aviator behind enemy lines. After their helicopter was shot down, Neal helped his pilot and the aviator evade enemy forces for nine days before they were captured and held as prisoners of war.
As the fourth Flight III destroyer built at Ingalls, DDG 131 will bring advanced capability to the fleet and carry forward Neal’s legacy of courage and commitment to his fellow service members.