Michelle Obama: ‘Beyond proud’ at US Navy submarine ceremony
GROTON, Conn. — First lady Michelle Obama said she was “beyond proud” to take part in a commissioning ceremony Saturday for the U.S. Navy attack submarine named for her home state of Illinois.
The submarine officially became the USS Illinois, SSN 786, and began active service at a ceremony at the submarine base in Groton, Connecticut.
Mrs. Obama, the ship sponsor, gave the order to “man our ship and bring her to life” before the crew of about 130 men ran across the brow, onto the vessel.
“Thank you for giving me the incredible privilege of being associated with you and with your families and with the Illinois for the rest of my life,” she told them. “I will continue to keep you in my prayers every single day and keep you in my thoughts, and know that you have a sponsor that cares deeply.”