MARINETTE, WI (AP)-- The U.S. Navy has celebrated the keel laying of a new Littoral Combat Ship at Marinette Marine.
The traditional ceremony for the future USS Little Rock took place Thursday at the Wisconsin shipyard, where the vessel is under construction.
During the ceremony, ship sponsor Janee Bonner authenticated the keel by having her signature welded into it.
The keel is usually the first part of a ship's hull to be constructed. Laying the keel is often marked with a ceremonial event.