Norton Grateful to U.S. Navy for Naming Submarine ‘USS Columbia’ in Honor of D.C.
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) released the following statement after the U.S. Navy held an official ceremony today to name its newest nuclear-powered submarine the "USS Columbia" in honor of the District of Columbia.
"I thanked Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus for calling me last week with the historic news that he and other Navy officials were recognizing and indeed honoring the people of the District of Columbia, particularly our residents in uniform who have fought and died in every war since our nation's founding, all without voting representation in Congress," Norton said. "Secretary Mabus spoke with me about D.C. statehood and was thoroughly familiar with our two-century long struggle for democracy and equal treatment. The Navy made a deliberate decision to honor our veterans, our residents, and our struggle for full democracy by naming the USS Columbia for the District of Columbia. Although there are other vessels named Columbia, this is the first time the name has been used to specifically commemorate the District of Columbia. As we continue to strive to become the 51st state, the District appreciates all recognitions, large and small, for our residents and to make D.C. more equal with the states."