Special Poll
President Joe Biden recently declared that the names of two upcoming U.S. Navy aircraft carriers will honor past Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.
In a statement released Monday, President Biden revealed the designations as the future USS William J. Clinton (CVN 82) and the future USS George W. Bush (CVN 83), with construction expected to begin in the coming years. He remarked that once operational, these carriers will enhance what he described as the most proficient, adaptable, and expert Navy in history.
The United States often names its significant naval vessels, including its colossal aircraft carriers that host thousands of personnel and numerous aircraft, after former presidents. This tradition continues with these new carriers, following others named for Gerald R. Ford and John F. Kennedy—the latter receiving this honor for the second time.
Bill Clinton, who was president from 1993 to 2001 and did not have military experience, saw his administration engage in military operations in Iraq, Yugoslavia, and Somalia during conflicts like the Black Hawk Down event. Conversely, George W. Bush, who served as a pilot in the Air National Guard, was the U.S. President from 2001 to 2009. His tenure was marked by the initiation of the “War on Terror” following the attacks of September 11, which led to prolonged conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, resulting in significant casualties.
Lloyd Austin, the U.S. Defense Secretary, praised the naming of the carriers, stating they will stand as enduring honors to the legacies of leadership and service both presidents provided to the United States. He added that these ships, along with their crews, will continue to protect national security, serve as reminders of the nation’s history, and motivate future generations to serve.