Bill Nelson: “I would like to recognize the Los Angeles- class attack submarine USS Jacksonville prior to her decommissioning. On…”

“I would like to recognize the Los Angeles- class attack submarine USS Jacksonville prior to her decommissioning. On August 10, the USS Jacksonville returned to homeport at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam after completing her final deployment in the Western Pacific. The completion of this mission marked the USS Jacksonville's 15th deployment since the ship's commissioning in May 1981. Over her lifespan, the USS Jacksonville has completed two around-the-world cruises, visited ports in nearly every continent, and completed countless critical missions. While assigned to the Enterprise battle group on September 11, 2001, the Jacksonville provided critical intelligence support as the Nation prepared to respond to the horrific attacks. In a tribute to its namesake, the Jacksonville's nickname is ``The Bold One,'' based on the city of Jacksonville, Florida's slogan of ``The Bold New City of the South.'' I am sure the entire city of Jacksonville, with its rich naval tradition, is honored today by this submarine's legacy, and the outstanding service provided by her crew and their dedication to our great Nation. Current and former crew will be hosting a reunion this November in Hawaii to say one final good-bye to the USS Jacksonville. I invite my colleagues to join me in honoring the boat, her current crew, and all of our Nation's courageous sailors who have served on board in years past. ____________________”