U.S. Navy christens new oiler ship named after Thurgood Marshall
U.S. Navy christens new oiler ship named after Thurgood Marshall
Updated at: June 6, 2026 at 11:15 AM
On June 6, 2026, the U.S.
Navy held a meaningful ceremony in San Diego, California, to christen its newest fleet replenishment oiler, the USNS Thurgood Marshall (T-AO 211).
Built by General Dynamics NASSCO, this vessel is the seventh in the John Lewis-class, designed to keep the Navy fleet operational by providing critical fuel and supplies while at sea.
The ceremony featured remarks from Major General David Bligh and included a traditional champagne christening by the late Supreme Court Justice's granddaughters.
The naming of this ship is particularly significant; it honors Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice and a legendary civil rights attorney.
By naming the vessel after him, the Navy continues its tradition of recognizing iconic figures who shaped American justice.
This ship now joins a long line of logistics vessels named after Supreme Court Justices, reinforcing the bridge between maritime service and the legacy of leaders who defended the principles of the United States.
