23
Sep
…KEYNOTE ADDRESS COMMISSIONING CEREMONY, U.S.S. SOMERVILLE Stardate 87724.4 Captain Va’Kel Shon, USS Enterprise Commanding Thank you for that lovely introduction, Councilwoman Shull. Good morning, assembled officers, crew, family and friends, honored platform guests, and distinguished visitors. When I realized the Enterprise would be in port this week, I was honored to accept the Councilwoman’s invitation to speak at today’s ceremony. Some of you may know that I’m a student of naval history, as far back as the iron-bowed icebreakers of Andor. I can tell you how special it is to be present when a new ship comes to life. Today, it’s my honor to celebrate the occasion of the U.S.S. Somerville’s commissioning with all of you. It’s rare that I get a chance to participate in a ceremony like this, but I relish the opportunity when it arises. These ceremonies and speeches may