CNO & Congressional Delegation Visit Portsmouth Naval Shipyard

KITTERY, Maine (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Mike Gilday visited Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY), Dec. 20, alongside Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Angus King, Maggie Hassan, and representatives from Senator Susan Collins’ office.

This visit to the shipyard follows Gilday’s recent trip to General Dynamics Electric Boat in Quonset Point, R.I. where he saw the manufacturing, modular construction, and outfitting of future Virginia and Columbia class submarines.

“Today’s visit was an important opportunity for Admiral Gilday to witness firsthand the indispensable contributions made by the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard to keep our Navy’s attack submarine fleet operational,” said Senator Shaheen, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. “I appreciate that the Admiral took the time to visit this holiday season, and I will continue to advocate for the important role of the Shipyard and its dedicated workforce to our national security.”

The oldest continuously operating Navy shipyard in the United States, PNSY’s primary mission is the overhaul, repair, modernization, and defueling of Los Angeles and Virginia Class submarines.

“Portsmouth Naval Shipyard has a storied history as a top-notch facility for the United States Navy, and it plays a vital role in both the region’s economy and the nation’s defense,” said Senator King. “Today was a great day to watch the team in action and thank the servicemembers and civilians for all they do.  The work done here makes sure that America’s submarine force is fully prepared to fulfill their critical mission; I’m proud that PNSY calls Maine home.”

PNSY provides a full spectrum of in-house support—from engineering services and production shops, to unique capabilities and facilities to off-site support—all of which service the multifaceted assortment of fleet requirements.

“The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard plays a vital role in keeping the Navy’s attack submarine fleet ready for action, and I was glad to welcome Admiral Gilday to the Shipyard so he could meet its world-renowned workforce and see firsthand the remarkable job that they do each and every day,” Senator Hassan said. “Ensuring that the Shipyard’s workforce have the resources that they need is one of my top priorities, and I will continue working across the aisle to support their vital mission and help keep our country safe, secure, and free.”

Gilday concluded his visit by joining the Sailors of the Year for a lunch in recognition of their accomplishments.

“Your leadership, expertise, and commitment to readiness is absolutely critical for us to sustain mastery of the undersea domain today and far into the future,” said Gilday.

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