FRIDAY edit: The USS Idaho a point of pride for Gem State

On Saturday, the USS Idaho will be commissioned into active service at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Conn. Now, you might wonder, isn't that more than 2,000 miles away? Why should I care? What difference does it make in our state?

The answers are: yes; you should; it does make a mighty big difference.

All of us here in North Idaho can take pride in this achievement, which can be traced to the Navy’s premier Acoustic Research Detachment in Bayview on Lake Pend Oreille. That's our very own backyard.

For Idahoans, this moment represents more than the addition of a new submarine to the mighty U.S. Navy’s fleet. It is a powerful reminder of our state’s continued contribution to national defense and service.

The commissioning of the USS Idaho marks the final milestone in a decade-long journey that began when the vessel was officially named in 2015. From keel laying in Rhode Island in 2020 to christening in 2024 and rigorous sea trials that concluded late last year, the process reflects years of dedication by shipbuilders, engineers, sailors and public servants. 

With its commissioning complete, the USS Idaho will be fully operational and ready to support America’s global naval strategy.

This underwater sub is special. It's a Virginia-class nuclear-powered fast-attack submarine. It represents the very best of our undersea warfare resources. 

These submarines play a critical role in gathering intelligence, deterring adversaries and ensuring freedom of the seas. Built for stealth, endurance and versatility, the USS Idaho will be capable of executing sensitive missions around the world. These are the types of missions we don't hear about, but we know they go on and that they are essential to America's safety and interests.

Idaho’s fingerprint is firmly embedded in this submarine’s capabilities. Much of the advanced acoustic stealth technology that gives the USS Idaho its edge was developed at the Navy’s premier Acoustic Research Detachment in Bayview on Lake Pend Oreille. That is yet another point of pride.

The facility, which is also home to the world’s largest unmanned submarine, is a testament to Idaho’s role in groundbreaking defense research. 

Likewise, modern nuclear technology developed at the Idaho National Laboratory will allow the USS Idaho to operate for up to 35 years without refueling, strengthening both efficiency and readiness.

We can all be proud of the name USS Idaho. This submarine is the fifth Navy vessel to bear the name, following in the footsteps of Battleship 42, which served with distinction during World War II. 

That ship supported the assaults on Iwo Jima and Okinawa and stood in Tokyo Bay during Japan’s formal surrender. Today’s USS Idaho honors that history while embracing the demands of modern warfare.

We can also take pride in the recognition of Idaho leadership. The naming of the engine room after former governor and U.S. Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne reflects the state’s long tradition of public service and national engagement. Kempthorne has served Idaho well and is deserving of this honor. He has always been one of North Idaho's strongest and best advocates.

Ultimately, the USS Idaho is more than a submarine. It is a symbol of Idaho ingenuity, American resolve and the strength that safeguards our nation. When it is commissioned Saturday, Idahoans can rest easy knowing our state played an important role in sending the USS Idaho on its journey to stand watch beneath the seas.