abcnews.go.com
USS Arkansas Submarine Christened
The USS Arkansas, a Virginia-class nuclear submarine, was christened Saturday in Newport News, Virginia, by Carlotta Walls LaNier of the Little Rock Nine, nearly a decade after its naming and with the keel laid in 2022; the submarine is expected to launch in 2025.
- What is the significance of the USS Arkansas's christening, considering its namesake and the individuals involved?
- The USS Arkansas, a Virginia-class submarine, was christened on Saturday in Newport News, Virginia. Carlotta Walls LaNier, a member of the Little Rock Nine, christened the vessel, a significant event almost a decade in the making. The submarine, the 27th in its class and 13th built at Newport News Shipbuilding, is expected to launch in 2025.
- What are the potential future implications of this event for the U.S. Navy and its relationship with historical events?
- The USS Arkansas's christening underscores the ongoing evolution of naval technology and its connection to historical events. The submarine represents advanced submarine force capabilities and symbolizes the enduring legacy of the Little Rock Nine, emphasizing the Navy's commitment to both technological advancement and social progress. The timing near the Pearl Harbor anniversary is likely symbolic, marking a continuous commitment to national security.
- How does the christening ceremony connect the history of the U.S. Navy with the broader context of the Civil Rights Movement?
- The christening ceremony honored the legacy of the Little Rock Nine, who desegregated Little Rock Central High School in 1957. Three members of the group attended and had their initials welded onto the submarine's keel in 2022. This event connects the Navy's history with the fight for civil rights, highlighting the contributions of these courageous women.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative frames the christening as a celebration of both naval power and the legacy of the Little Rock Nine, giving equal weight to both aspects. The headline, while not explicitly provided, would likely focus on the christening, potentially overshadowing the broader naval context if not carefully written. The introductory paragraph establishes the timeline and the connection to Arkansas, setting the stage for the historical narrative to follow. This framing creates a positive and unifying tone.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and descriptive. Terms like "courageous sponsors" and "proud legacy" carry positive connotations but are used in a context that aligns with the event. There is no overtly charged language.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the christening ceremony and the historical significance of the Little Rock Nine, but omits details about the submarine's capabilities, cost, or projected operational timeline beyond its expected launch in 2025. The lack of information about the ship's specifications might limit a reader's full understanding of its purpose and significance. Further, the article omits any mention of potential controversies or challenges that may have arisen during the submarine's construction or development.
Sustainable Development Goals
The christening ceremony of the USS Arkansas highlighted the legacy of the Little Rock Nine, emphasizing their role in overcoming racial segregation. This directly connects to SDG 16, which promotes peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, providing access to justice for all and building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. The event honors a historical achievement in the fight for justice and equality.