USS Pierre (LCS 38) Commissions ‘Under the Bright Florida Sky’

On November 15, 2025, a significant milestone was reached as the U.S. Navy commissioned its cutting-edge Independence-variant littoral combat ship, the USS Pierre (LCS 38), in a ceremony held in Panama City, Florida. This event marked the introduction of the 19th and final ship of its class, designed to address the modern challenges of naval warfare with speed, agility, and a focus on coastal operations.

A Historic Ceremony

The commissioning ceremony was graced by the presence of Honorable John Phelan, the 79th Secretary of the Navy, who emphasized the symbolic importance of the event. Speaking under the radiant Florida sky, Phelan praised the innovation embodied in the USS Pierre and acknowledged the dedication of its crew. His words highlighted the pride associated with the ship’s commissioning, as he expressed gratitude not just for the ship but for the people who built and will sail her.

“What an extraordinary day to stand beside our newest warship, surrounded by those who built her and those who will sail her,” Phelan remarked, encapsulating the essence of the day and the emotional significance of the moment for all involved.

A Call to Duty

Larissa Thune Hargens, the ship’s sponsor and daughter of South Dakota Senator John Thune, delivered a heartfelt message as she gave the traditional order to “man our ship and bring her to life.” The urgency in her voice was met with a resounding “aye, aye, ma’am” from the sailors, who sprinted aboard the USS Pierre, symbolizing a shared commitment to duty and honor.

Her connection to the Navy runs deep, highlighted by her grandfather’s legacy as a Navy fighter pilot during World War II. Hargens’ speech resonated with the crew, reminding them of the bravery and devotion that define naval service. “Just as my grandfather once took to the skies to defend our freedom, you will take to the seas to protect it,” she asserted, forging a bond between past and present.

Community Engagement

In the lead-up to the commissioning, the crew dedicated time to engage with the local community. Activities included hosting tours and interacting with local organizations, strengthening ties between the USS Pierre and Panama City. This outreach underlined the ship’s commitment to not just serve nationally, but also to build relationships on a local level.

Commander Justin Guernsey, the commanding officer of the USS Pierre, emphasized the ship’s role in representing American values. “To commission a ship that embodies our nation’s free and independent spirit is a profound honor,” he declared. His words portrayed the mission of the USS Pierre as not just operational, but also symbolic of American ideals.

Distinguished Guests

The ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including U.S. Senator John Thune, U.S. Senator Ashley Moody, U.S. Representative Neal Dunn, and Rear Admiral Jeff Jurgemeyer. Their presence underscored the importance of the USS Pierre within both national defense strategy and local pride. The event was efficiently orchestrated by Lt. Cmdr. Audrey Munji, the executive officer, who served as the master of ceremonies.

The Ship’s Capabilities

The USS Pierre was designed as part of the Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ships, characterized by their speed, flexibility, and advanced capabilities. These ships are optimized for a variety of missions in near-shore and open-ocean environments, equipped to confront the complex coastal threats of the 21st century. They function in tandem with both manned and unmanned forces to uphold maritime security, sea control, and deterrence missions worldwide.

A Naval Legacy

The mission of Commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet, emphasizes the necessity of manning, training, and equipping naval forces to provide robust naval power that can dominate the seas and project influence ashore. The commissioning of the USS Pierre not only adds a formidable asset to the fleet but also strengthens the legacy of naval aviation and maritime defense in increasingly contested waters.

The USS Pierre stands poised to become a valuable asset in the United States Navy, ensuring the safety of American interests while fostering community connections and honoring the historical narratives that shape military service. With a motto echoing the call to action—“On the move!… On the hunt!”—the ship and her crew are ready to embark on their vital mission.

For those interested in learning more, additional details about the naval operations and the USS Pierre can be found through official Navy channels, providing a gateway into the broader narrative of maritime defense and community interaction.