Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01) today highlighted a formal response from the Secretary of the Navy regarding his proposal to name the next Ford-class aircraft carrier (CVN-84) the USS Yorktown in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.

In a response to a letter sent by Congressman Wittman earlier this year, the Secretary called the proposal “a profoundly symbolic act” that would “bridge the birth of the republic with its future” and serve as “a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of the U.S. Navy.”

The Secretary also confirmed that the recommendation “has been formally received” and “will be given full and earnest consideration.”

“Yorktown represents the moment our nation secured its independence — and the legacy of American strength that followed,” said Rep. Wittman. “I’m encouraged that the Navy recognizes the significance of this proposal as we approach our nation’s 250th anniversary.”

Wittman previously urged that CVN-84 be named USS Yorktown to honor the decisive American victory at the Battle of Yorktown and the storied service of prior Navy vessels bearing the name, including those that served with distinction during World War II.

“As we look to the next generation of naval power, there is no more fitting name to carry forward into America’s next 250 years,” Rep. Wittman added.

You can read Congressman Wittman’s letter to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth urging that the next United States Navy nuclear-powered aircraft carrier (CVN-84) be named the USS Yorktown in commemoration of the 250th anniversary of American independence here.

Read the Secretary of Navy’s response here.