Shipbuilders,

Sixty-one years ago today, submarine USS Thresher (SSN 593) was tragically lost at sea, taking the lives of 129 officers, crew and civilians. While Newport News Shipbuilding didn’t build Thresher, the anniversary serves as a reminder of what is at stake as we build U.S. Navy submarines and aircraft carriers.

We should all know the story of Thresher, share it with those around us, and keep it in our hearts and minds every day. This solemn anniversary – and the memory of the 129 who gave their lives in service of our country – shines a light on the importance of quality and why we must never waver from our standards.

Please take a moment to watch a video, featuring NNS shipbuilders Sarah Young, Rick Mora, Shineka Dixon, Enoch Sutton, Christine Reinaman and Sean Nelson, commemorating this anniversary and highlighting the impact of the Thresher disaster on our work today.

We must never forget.

Respectfully,
Jennifer Boykin
President, Newport News Shipbuilding