USS Robert Kerrey: A Tribute to a SEAL, Senator, and Vietnam Survivor

The US Navy recently unveiled the newest addition to its fleet of Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers, the future USS Robert Kerrey (DDG 146). This significant honor recognizes the exceptional service and heroism of Joseph Robert Kerrey—a former Navy SEAL, Nebraska Governor, US Senator, and Medal of Honor recipient.

The announcement, made by Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro, underscores Kerrey’s legacy of courage and service both in and out of uniform.

Honoring a Vietnam War Hero

Secretary Del Toro announced the ship’s naming on January 4, 2025, at a press conference at New York’s Intrepid Museum, where he personally shared the news with Kerrey.

“One of the great privileges I have as Secretary of the Navy is to name ships, and it is my honor to name the future USS Robert Kerrey (DDG 146),” said Del Toro. “This will be the first Navy vessel named in his honor, and it is most appropriate we do so, for his actions in Vietnam and his continued service to this country well beyond his Naval service.”

Kerrey expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, thanking outgoing President Joe Biden, Secretary Del Toro, and the Navy.

Reflecting on his military career, he called his years in the Navy “three of the best years of my life.”

“I am very grateful for this recognition,” Kerrey added.

Joseph R. Kerrey: A Life of Valor and Service

Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, in 1943, Kerrey entered the Navy in 1966, following graduation from the University of Nebraska with a degree in pharmacy.

He completed Officer Candidate School and Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training before deploying to Vietnam as a platoon officer with SEAL Team 1.

In March 1969, Kerrey led a daring mission to capture key Viet Cong political leaders on an island in Nha Trang Bay.

Under the cover of darkness, Kerrey’s platoon scaled a 350-foot cliff to surprise the enemy from an elevated position. However, the mission quickly turned deadly when a grenade exploded at Kerrey’s feet, severely injuring his right leg and propelling him onto jagged rocks.

Despite his critical injuries, Kerrey remained focused, directing his team’s efforts to secure the enemy camp and locate an extraction point. His steadfast leadership under fire ensured the mission’s success, with his team evacuating critical prisoners who provided valuable intelligence to US forces. Kerrey ultimately lost his lower leg due to his injuries.

For his extraordinary heroism, Kerrey received the Medal of Honor in 1970, becoming the first Navy SEAL to be awarded the nation’s highest military honor.

President Richard Nixon presented the medal to Kerrey at a White House ceremony, where Kerrey humbly accepted it on behalf of his team and those who did not survive similar battles.

“[…] Although bleeding profusely and suffering great pain, he displayed outstanding courage and presence of mind in immediately directing his element’s fire into the heart of the enemy camp. Utilizing his radioman, Lieutenant (jg) Kerrey called in the second element’s fire support which caught the confused Viet Cong in a devastating cross fire.”

— An excerpt from Kerrey’s Medal of Honor citation

After his military service, Kerrey transitioned into civilian life, becoming a successful entrepreneur, the 35th Governor of Nebraska, and a US Senator. He later served on the 9/11 Commission, contributing to efforts to safeguard the nation against future terrorist threats.

Kerrey’s lifetime of service epitomizes the values of courage, leadership, and dedication.

Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyers: Backbone of the Fleet

The future USS Robert Kerrey will join the Navy’s formidable fleet of Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, a class renowned for its advanced technology and multi-mission capabilities.

Designed around the state-of-the-art Aegis Combat System, these destroyers are built to operate in complex and multi-threat environments, including air, surface, and subsurface domains.

Key technical specifications of the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers include:

• Stealth Design: Incorporating radar-absorbent materials and an angular design to reduce radar signature.
• Aegis Combat System: A sophisticated integrated weapons system capable of tracking and engaging multiple targets simultaneously.
• Missile Capabilities: Equipped with vertical launch systems capable of deploying Standard Missile variants, Tomahawk cruise missiles, and more.
• Anti-Submarine Warfare: Advanced sonar systems and torpedoes to counter underwater threats.
• Speed and Range: Powered by gas turbine engines, these ships can reach speeds exceeding 30 knots and have an operational range of over 4,400 nautical miles.

The Future Role of USS Robert Kerrey

Once delivered, the USS Robert Kerrey will serve as a critical component of the Navy’s surface fleet. Its versatility enables it to perform a wide range of operations, from peacetime presence and humanitarian missions to national security and full-scale combat engagements.

I’m pleased to name the future USS Robert Kerrey (DDG 146) after MoH recipient, Navy SEAL, Former Senator and Nebraska Governor, Robert Kerrey. May the future USS Robert Kerrey serve as fearlessly and selflessly as her namesake! pic.twitter.com/odVUf3N901

— Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro (@SECNAV) January 4, 2025

The ship’s capabilities will ensure it can defend US interests worldwide, contributing to the Navy’s mission to safeguard maritime freedom and deter conflict.

The addition of the USS Robert Kerrey to the Navy’s fleet not only enhances the Navy’s operational readiness but also stands as a lasting tribute to a man whose courage and service have inspired generations. This ship will carry Kerrey’s legacy forward, serving as a beacon of strength and resilience in defense of the nation.