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The christening ceremony for ships reaches into the dawn of recorded history. The custom has survived through the ages and is still practiced in some form by all seafaring nations. Until the 19th century, men christened United States ships. In 1846, however Mrs. Lavina Watson Fanning became the first woman to sponsor a ship as she christened the sloop GERMANTOWN in Philadelphia. Since that occasion, the honor has always been bestowed upon a woman. According to legend, the sponsor's spirit enters the ship as she breaks the traditional christening bottle. Sponsor and ship become part of each other, united in spirit forever. Mrs. David Eisenhower christened GETTYSBURG. When she did so on 22 July 1989, she and GETTYSBURG shared a unique moment, as each became part of the other's life and exchanged bonds that will last forever. |
The blue and gold are the traditional Navy colors. The shield, divided dark blue and gray, refers to the colors of the Union and Confederate Armies and a country split by war. White expresses peace and optimism and red is a reminder of the immeasurable valor and blood shed at the epic battle of Gettysburg. The three pheons represent the number of days of the intense Civil War battle and allude to the Union and Confederate assault lines. The pheons point up portraying Gettysburg's vertical launch capabilities. The number also reflects three major Aegis cruiser missions, anti-air ,anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare. The arch recalls Seminary ridge, Culps Hill and Little Round Top, critical positions on the Gettysburg battlefield. The anchor symbolizes sea prowess and the ties with the ship's Maine birthplace, the two stares represent the two previous ships named "USS GETTYSBURG." |
At the dedication of the National Cemetery on the Gettysburg battleground, President Lincoln delivered his immortal Gettysburg Address. The scroll with a drop of blood honors those famous words, especially". . .that those dead shall not have died in vain." Our national bird, the bald eagle, appropriately represents President Lincoln and the Union he strove to preserve; the eagle also emphasizes the Union's victory. Gettysburg was the turning point in the Civil War, which ultimately forged a stronger nation. The inverted wreath honors all that died, Union and Confederate alike. Muskets were in general use during the Civil War and highlight the hand to hand combat as both sides exploded in a tremendous clash of musketry. |
"Deeds Not Words" reflects the willingness of those who fought at Gettysburg and those who serve in the ship to translate strength of conviction into decisive action. |
