With Honors: USS Thomas Hudner christened

Andover will hold a permanent place on the newly constructed ship. As part of the traditional “Mast Stepping Ceremony,” an Andover Bicentennial Coin was among the items placed in the mast stepping box. In today’s interpretation of a custom that predates the modern US Navy, “the items that are chosen to be placed beneath the mast of the ship serve to represent the life and character of her namesake.”

US Rep. Seth Moulton ’97, with US Rep. Bruce Poliquin ’72 present, spoke for the Congressional Record, noting the significance of this weekend’s ceremony. “On Saturday, April 1, the Hudner family, the Brown family, veterans from across all branches, elected officials and the community of Phillips Academy will gather for the joyous occasion of the christening of the ship. It is a ship that embodies the spirit of Captain Hudner’s school—non sibi, or not for self. He leads his life in that spirit from Fall River, to Andover, to the Chosin Reservoir and on to his continued service to the veterans community.”

Read more from the Boston Globe and Bangor Daily News.