CONNECTICUT, USA — The USS Idaho, the U.S. Navy's newest warship, was christened and named Saturday morning in Connecticut.
Back here at home - 2,500 miles away - Idahoans gathered in groups across the state to watch on, and get a look at the first warship that will be named 'Idaho' since 1946.
The USS Idaho Commissioning Committee organized watched parties across the Gem State to bring together Idahoans to celebrate the historic moment. The watch party in Boise was organized by Navy veteran Jerry Macner, who wanted to bring together people interested in the USS Idaho and the Navy.
"Trying to get the word out to the folks in all corners of the state," Macner said. "Just to really build that relationship between the folks of Idaho and in the crew of the new USS Idaho."
It is a connection that now spans the country, and a significant moment - a long time coming for the Gem State.
"It's fantastic. I mean, it's been 100 years since the commissioning of the last USS Idaho, so it's long overdue" Macner said. "The state of Idaho is just a great connection that not many people realize - with the Navy, with nuclear propulsion and submarines. So it's a perfect fit."
The USS Idaho Commissioning Committee also hosts other outreach events. They hope to have another watch party around this time next year when the USS Idaho is formally commissioned.
Watch more Local News:
See the latest news from around the Treasure Valley and the Gem State in our YouTube playlist:
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET NEWS FROM KTVB:
Download the KTVB News Mobile App
Apple iOS: Click here to download
Google Play: Click here to download
Watch news reports for FREE on YouTube: KTVB YouTube channel
Stream Live for FREE on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching 'KTVB'.
Stream Live for FREE on FIRE TV: Search ‘KTVB’ and click ‘Get’ to download.