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.
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