The future USS Patrick Gallagher was christened by the sister of the Irish-born recipient of the Navy Cross, who sacrificed his life in Vietnam to save his comrades. Pauline Gallagher, one of his sisters, expressed gratitude for the ship bearing her brother’s name, ensuring that his memory will live on forever. The ship’s motto, “Life is for living. Be brave and be bold,” was shared by the family during the ceremony, highlighting the courageous spirit of Patrick Gallagher.
The event was filled with Irish influences, from the flying of the Irish flag alongside the Stars and Stripes to the performance of the Irish anthem and traditional music. Family and friends of Gallagher traveled from Ireland to witness the christening, underscoring the strong connection that Gallagher had to his homeland. The ceremony also included a speech by Seán Fleming, Ireland’s minister of state at the Department of Foreign Affairs, further emphasizing the international significance of the occasion.
Lance Cpl. Patrick Gallagher, originally from County Mayo in Ireland, moved to America to start a new life and enlisted in the Marines while living on Long Island, New York. His heroic act of falling on a grenade to save his comrades in Vietnam earned him the Navy Cross, but tragically, he lost his life while on patrol just days before he was set to return home. Gallagher’s family described him as a humble man who tried to downplay his service until he was recognized for his bravery.
The ceremony also served as a day of solemn remembrance for Gallagher and other Irish citizens who lost their lives in Vietnam, with U.S. Sen. Susan Collins acknowledging the significance of the event. While the christening was a celebration of Gallagher’s life and sacrifice, it was also a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by many during times of conflict. The promise of the ship visiting Ireland after its commission added a special touch to the ceremony, bringing together Gallagher’s Irish heritage with his American military service.
Despite the poignant moments of the ceremony, there were also disruptions outside the shipyard, where protesters were arrested for blocking vehicles and trespassing. The demonstrators, part of organizations supporting various causes, sought to bring attention to their causes during the high-profile event. However, inside the shipyard, the focus remained on honoring Gallagher’s legacy and the completion of the guided missile destroyer bearing his name, which is set to join the Navy’s fleet upon completion.
As work continues on the future USS Patrick Gallagher, the guided-missile destroyer is being prepared for delivery to the Navy. Built to engage in multiple forms of warfare, including defense against submarines, surface warships, aircraft, and missiles, the destroyer represents a key component of the Navy’s fleet. With a displacement of 9,200 tons, the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer is equipped to handle modern threats, including ballistic missile defense, ensuring its readiness for any future conflict.
