First lady Michelle Obama commissioned the attack submarine Illinois on Saturday as the official sponsor of the boat.
The first lady gave the official order for commissioning the ship in the time-honored Navy tradition of saying, “man our ship and bring her to life” during a ceremony in Connecticut.
Obama said she had “bitter sweet” feelings about the commissioning because it will be her last visit with the Navy as first lady after being made the sub’s official sponsor more than two years ago.
During that time, the USS Illinois has gone from parts spread over three states to become the most advanced ship in the Navy’s fleet, which she said is as complicated to run as a space shuttle.
Beyond the “great materials” that went into the fast attack sub, she said “we’re also celebrating the outstanding sailors who serve on it.” She said she will keep all the ship’s crew in her prayers after leaving the White House and will always be thankful for their service.
The submarine is one of the most advanced warships in the world, and only the second to be named after Obama’s home state of Illinois. The last USS Illinois was a battleship that began its service in 1907.
“This submarine represents not only the Navy’s lasting connection to the state of Illinois but also the American innovation and manufacturing skill that have given us such a powerful advantage, making us the most powerful expeditionary fighting force the world has ever known,” Navy Secretary Ray Mabus said in a statement ahead of the commissioning ceremony.
The Illinois is a Virginia-class submarine that displaces 7,800 tons and is 377 feet long.
