USS Helmand: Navy Honors Marine Corps' Afghanistan Service with New Assault Ship

The US Navy has named its newest amphibious assault ship, LHA-10, theUSS Helmand Province, paying tribute to the nearly two decades of combat operations conducted by the US Marine Corps in Afghanistan's Helmand Province during Operation Enduring Freedom. Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced the decision, following his previous naming of LHA-9 as the future USS Fallujah in 2022.

The naming of the USS Helmand Province serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by US Marines and Sailors in the rugged terrain of Afghanistan over the course of the nearly 20-year war, and highlights the ongoing legacy of US military involvement in the region. This tribute also underscores the importance of acknowledging the bravery and sacrifices of military personnel in conflicts that have shaped global politics and international relations.

The USS Helmand Province will be the third Flight I America-class ship, succeeding the Bougainville and Fallujah. Unlike the first two Flight 0 America-class ships, the 45,000-ton vessel will feature a well deck, enhancing its amphibious capabilities. "In line with the naval tradition of christening our Navy's amphibious assault vessels after significant U.S. Marine Corps engagements, I am pleased to declare today that the future LHA-10 will carry the distinguished name USS Helmand Province," stated Secretary Del Toro. "This naming honors the courage and sacrifice of our Marines and Sailors who dedicated nearly two decades to the mountains of Afghanistan."

Why this matters: The decision to name the ship after a province in Afghanistan has sparked debate among observers. Some argue that it pays homage to a failed campaign, while others view it as a recognition of the bravery and sacrifices made by those who served. The article also touches on the United Kingdom's military capabilities, with commentators criticizing the country's decision to sell off its military assets and outsource recruitment to private agencies.

Helmand Province was a key battleground for US and British forces during the Afghanistan conflict. In 2009, the Obama administration's surge in Helmand required additional US troops to support the under-resourced British effort in the region. The naming of the USS Helmand Province serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by US Marines and Sailors in the rugged terrain of Afghanistan over the course of the nearly 20-year war.

Key Takeaways

• US Navy names new amphibious assault ship USS Helmand Province, honoring US Marine Corps' nearly 20-year combat operations in Afghanistan.
• The ship is the third Flight I America-class vessel, featuring a well deck to enhance amphibious capabilities.
• Naming decision sparks debate, with some viewing it as a tribute to bravery and sacrifice, while others see it as a reminder of a failed campaign.
• Helmand Province was a key battleground for US and British forces during the Afghanistan conflict.
• Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced the decision, following the naming of LHA-9 as the future USS Fallujah in 2022.