[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 105 (Wednesday, June 29, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Page S4719]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE COMMISSIONING OF USS ``NEVADA,'' SSBN 733

  Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize the 30th 
anniversary of the commissioning of USS Nevada, SSBN 733. I am proud to 
honor one of Nevada's namesake ships and all Americans that served 
aboard her.
  Launched on September 14, 1985, USS Nevada, SSBN 733, is a U.S. Navy 
Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine and the fourth U.S. Navy ship 
named in honor of our great State. She was sponsored by Carol Laxalt, 
the wife of then-U.S. Senator Paul Laxalt. Upon launch, Captain F.W. 
Rohm was in command of the Blue Crew, and Captain William Stone led the 
Gold Crew. The submarine was then commissioned on August 16, 1986. She 
is now one of eight Ohio-class ballistic submarines homeported at Naval 
Base Kitsap-Bangor, where crews have worked tirelessly to preserve this 
national treasure. It gives me great pleasure to honor the history and 
heritage of this ship and her crew members who sacrificed so much 
defending our freedoms.
  The brave men and women serving in the U.S. Navy have demonstrated 
true commitment to our Nation with their selfless actions and exemplify 
why the legacy of all veterans must be preserved for generations to 
come. As a member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, I 
recognize that Congress has a responsibility not only to honor these 
brave individuals, but to ensure they are cared for after their return 
home. I remain committed to upholding this promise for our veterans and 
servicemembers in Nevada and throughout the Nation, including those who 
served on USS Nevada, SSBN 733.
  Today I ask that we recognize the 30th anniversary of the 
commissioning of USS Nevada, SSBN 733, and all that sailed aboard her. 
I am both humbled and honored to commemorate these brave men and women 
and to celebrate this important milestone. May we never forget the 
legacy of this great submarine and her gallant crew.

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