    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (1999, Book II)]
    [October 30, 1999]
    [Page 1935]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Naming a Guided Missile Destroyer for Senator John H.
    Chafee
    October 30, 1999

        I am honored to announce today that the 40th ship of the Arleigh
    Burke class of guided missile destroyers will be named in honor of the
    late Senator John H. Chafee of Rhode Island. Senator Chafee
    distinguished himself throughout a life dedicated to serving our Nation
    as a United States Senator, as Secretary of the Navy, as Governor of
    Rhode Island, and as a United States Marine in World War II and the
    Korean war. Given Senator Chafee's long association with the sea--with
    the Marine Corps, the Navy, and the great maritime State of Rhode
    Island--I can think of no better way to honor his many contributions
    than to name a warship in his honor.
        The ship named in honor of Senator Chafee will be one of the most
    technologically advanced ships in the United States Navy. It will be
    capable of performing a wide range of missions in support of U.S.
    national security. Whether showing the flag in peacetime to build good
    will with other nations or employing its potent combat power in
    conflict, the ship will carry on Senator Chafee's legacy of honorable
    service to our Nation.