Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on the Naming of New Zumwalt-Class Destroyer After Petty Officer Second Class (SEAL) Michael A. Monsoor

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

October 30, 2008

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement in recognition of Secretary of the Navy Donald C. Winter naming the newest Zumwalt-class Destroyer after Petty Officer Second Class (SEAL) Michael A. Monsoor of Garden Grove, CA:

"Petty Officer Michael Monsoor distinguished himself as an exceptional sailor who went beyond the call of duty to defend our nation and selflessly protect his fellow Americans. It is with great admiration and deep gratitude that we recognize Michael's incredible sacrifice, for which he is being honored with the naming of the new Zumwalt-class Destroyer, USS Michael Monsoor. His loyal service and dedication to our country is an inspiration to all Californians and this recognition will serve as a constant reminder to this ship's future sailors."

Petty Officer Monsoor received the Medal of Honor posthumously for displaying extraordinary bravery and unparalleled personal courage in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He died Sept. 29, 2006, of injuries sustained while conducting combat operations against enemy forces in Ramadi, Iraq.

USS Michael Monsoor will be a multi-mission surface combatant tailored for advanced land attack. The ship's mission is to provide credible, independent forward presence and deterrence and to operate as an integral part of naval, joint or combined maritime forces.

USS Michael Monsoor will be the 2nd Zumwalt-class destroyer. It will be 600 feet in length, have a beam of 80.7 feet, and displace approximately 14,564 tons. Michael Monsoor will have a crew size of 142 officers and sailors and it will make speed in excess of 30 knots.

For additional information about Petty Officer Michael Monsoor, please visit http://www.navy.mil/moh/Monsoor/