Ship Sponsors

The ship’s Sponsor plays an important role in the life of each ship. Following longstanding naval tradition, a ship’s Sponsor is a female who is typically selected for her relationship to the namesake or to the ship’s current mission. It is said that her spirit and presence will guide the ship throughout its service life. Far beyond coordinating her participation at the traditional christening event, it is incumbent upon the Navy to foster a positive and active relationship with the Sponsor that lasts from her selection to ship decommissioning.

The SECNAV is the sole entity with authority to approve the selection of the Sponsor of new construction, conversion, and long-term charter ships. If the ship is not named for an individual, the Navy seeks to select Sponsor(s) with an association to the heritage of the namesake (either geographical or cultural) or to the background or mission of the ship.

The Sponsor is invited to name a Maid(s)/Matron(s) of Honor to assist her in the execution of her ceremonial duties. Upon notification of the ship’s sponsor, the Prospective Commanding Officer (PCO) will contact her to establish a relationship with the Pre-commissioning crew. The PCO and Crew will serve as the Sponsor’s guide and escort throughout all ceremonial events.

Subsequent Commanding Officers maintain the relationship with the Sponsor and Maids/ Matrons of Honor throughout the ship’s service life.

Once selected, the ships’ Sponsor maintains that role for the entire commissioned life of the ship. In the event that the Sponsor is unable to fulfill her official duties during the Christening or Commissioning ceremonies, her Maid/Matron of Honor will serve as her proxy during the events. If the Sponsor steps down from the role or passes away while the ship is in commission, the Maid(s)/Matron(s) of honor will represent the Sponsor in all official sponsorship duties.