Shipbuilders, 

Today marks 20 years since Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast and our shipyard. We remember the fear and uncertainty as we navigated damage to our homes and communities. But we also remember all of you who showed up again and again, working side-by-side to keep Ingalls running. 

When Katrina struck, it was ships built by Ingalls shipbuilders, USS Iwo Jima, USS Bataan, and the USS Tortuga, that showed up to provide relief. They delivered supplies, supported medical teams, and carried out rescue and cleanup missions that helped the Gulf Coast recover. 

Those same ships still protect and defend our nation today, answering the call wherever they are needed. That mission has guided us for decades and remains as urgent as ever. It’s our hands that craft the tools our Navy needs so they are there when crisis hits and the nation calls. 

I hope you feel immense pride in what you do because it’s not just the mission-critical ships we build that are inspiring; it’s the courage, grit and loyalty you show every day. You are part of a team that does what is right no matter what. That spirit carried us through Katrina and it will continue to carry us through the future.  

Thank you for your hard work, your sacrifice, and your commitment to the mission. Together, we build more than ships, we build strength, resilience and a future we can all be proud of. 

Brian 

Click here to watch a shipbuilder testimonial video: Remembering Hurricane Katrina | Shipbuilders reflect 20 years later