BELOIT, Wisc., (SPECTRUM NEWS) -- The Navy's top generator company, Fairbanks Morse, built the engine for the new U.S.S. Beloit combat ship now underway at the Marinette Shipyard.
The vessel was named in part to honor Beloit, Wisconsin and the legacy of one of the city's oldest companies, Fairbanks Morse, for its decades of dedication.
"It's all about the passion, and it's about the service and it's about taking care of our customers. In particular, the US. Navy," Fairbanks. Morse CEO George Whittier says. "The folks at Fairbanks, it's almost like we're an extension of the Navy. There's so much pride and patriotism and we're passionate about taking care of them."
Whittier says the engine for the U.S.S. Beloit took nine months to build and will feature a special sentimental touch to commemorate the high honor.
"What we were able to do is put a nice plack together so every one of our employees have signed this, and the plaque will go on to the engine itself," Whittier says.
Fairbanks Morse was planning to hold a big parade for the engine before it heads up to the Marinette Shipyard — but due to COVID-19, the company has tabled the large celebration until next year.