The District of Columbia is rich with naval history. The Washington Navy Yard is our oldest shore facility. Marines like Montford Point Marine Herman Darden and Brigadier General Anthony Henderson and Sailors like Yeoman Charlotte Louise Berry Winters and Medal of Honor Recipient First Class Fireman John Rush were born and raised in D.C. This is why I prefer to call D.C. not just our nation’s capital, but instead, our naval capital. The naming of the USS District of Columbia honors this.
—Carlos Del Toro, Secretary of the Navy, 3 June 2022 Press Release
We invite you to learn more about the incredible people, the places, and the events within the District of Columbia that contributed to creating the world’s most powerful Navy.
