BATH, Maine, May 9 (UPI) -- General Dynamics' newest guided-missile destroyer for the U.S. Navy has been christened at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine.
The new destroyer honors Medal of Honor recipient Navy Lt. Michael P. Murphy.
The ceremony was Saturday, which would have been the Navy SEAL's 35th birthday.
"It is my sincere belief that this ship will build on the momentum gained by our special operations forces in the fight against extremism and sail the seas in a world made more peaceful by sustained American vigilance, power and dignity," said Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead. "This ship will carry Michael's legacy and values to sailors several decades from now and to a new generation of Americans."
Designated DDG 112, Michael Murphy, the 62nd Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, will be able to conduct a variety of operations, It is 509 feet in length, has a waterline beam of 59 feet, and a navigational draft of 31 feet.
Four gas turbine engines will power the ship to speeds in excess of 30 knots.
Smith was killed in Afghanistan in 2005 while leading a four-man team searching for Taliban leaders.
