MILWAUKEE — The USS Beloit, a freedom-class littoral combat ship, officially joined the U.S. Navy fleet on a historic day for both the Navy and Wisconsin.

The commissioning ceremony at Veterans Park in Milwaukee highlighted the state’s contributions to national defense and close ties between the ship and its namesake city.

The ship, named after Beloit, Wisconsin, honors the city’s legacy of innovation and craftmanship.

Ensign William Murray, the ship’s gunnery officer, reflected on the long journey to this moment.

“It’s amazing,” said Murray. “I mean, we have put in months and months of work and to see it all come together and the amazing turnout here is really incredible.”

Built in Marinette, Wisconsin, and powered by engines from Beloit-based Fairbanks Morse Defense, the 375-foot vessel is designed for near-shore and open-ocean missions, including mine warfare and anti-submarine operations. 

“I think we were really lucky with our commissioning committee and the amount of support we got from the town of Beloit,” said Murray.

Fairbanks Morse Defense, which has been a cornerstone of Beloit’s economy for more than 150 years, built the ship’s engines. CEO George Whittier emphasized the significance of this moment for the community.

“To have a Navy warship named after our small town on the Rock River is unbelievable,” Whittier said. “This ship is one of the best and newest in the fleet, and we couldn’t be prouder of the hard work our union members put into building its engines.”

The ceremony drew together military leaders, Wisconsin politicians and proud citizens, all celebrating the connection between the ship and its namesake community.

After departing Milwaukee, the USS Beloit will call Jacksonville, Florida, home, where it will play a vital role in Navy operations.