A JOINT MEMORIAL

REQUESTING THAT THE STATE SPONSOR AND SUPPORT THE SUBMARINE USS NEW MEXICO SSN-779 AT MILESTONE CEREMONIES DURING CONSTRUCTION AND COMMISSIONING.

     WHEREAS, on December 6, 2004, the secretary of the United States navy officially named the sixth Virginia-class nuclear submarine after the land of enchantment; and

     WHEREAS, the USS New Mexico is being constructed by Northrop Grumman Newport News and General Dynamics Electric Boat, with assembly at the shipyards of Newport News, Virginia; and

     WHEREAS, the New Mexico council of the navy league of the United States, having been instrumental in the name selection process and being dedicated to informing New Mexicans about the need for a strong United States navy submarine force, will continue to assist the state of New Mexico in maintaining a close liaison with the navy and the shipbuilders; and

     WHEREAS, there will be construction milestones, known as keel-laying, christening and commissioning ceremonies, involving the participation of New Mexicans; and

     WHEREAS, the USS New Mexico, when delivered to the United States navy, will be the most sophisticated, capable submarine in the world, ensuring continued undersea supremacy for the United States;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the state proudly offer its support and cooperation in seeing that key construction ceremonies, enhanced by our unique New Mexico culture, are carried out in the finest naval tradition; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be transmitted to the governor of New Mexico, the secretary of veterans' services, the presidents of Northrop Grumman Newport News and General Dynamics Electric Boat and the secretary of the navy.