Cape Canaveral, Florida, Sept 10, 2020 — US Navy League Cape Canaveral Council (http:// www.nlusccc.org/) is the lead organization providing support for the commissioning of the USS Delbert D. Black DDG-119, that will take place on September 26, 2020 at Cruise Terminal 1 in Port Canaveral.

The ship is named after Master Chief Delbert D. Black, who on January 13, 1967, the Secretary of the Navy announced was selected as the First Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy. As such, he was the highest ranking enlisted man in the U.S. Navy, serving as the enlisted representative to the Chief of Naval Operations. He counseled the highest Navy councils on problems associated with enlisted guidance, leadership, and policy.

Due to COVID-19 attendance at the commissioning has been limited to a small number of guests. The public is encouraged to watch the ceremony streamed live. The link can be found on the commissioning website, (http://www.ussdelbertdblack.org/)

You can participate in the the virtual 5K that the commissioning committee is hosting by visiting the commissioning website for more information on how to participate. Registrants will receive a commemorative T-Shirt, finisher Medal and photo of the ship. The cost is $25. This event is currently open for registrations and will close on September 27th, 2020. Participants submitting times are asked to log their times no later than September 30th.

Fundraising from the 5K and other donations will be used to pay for commissioning activities, including a ball caps, plaques, entries into the 5K, and a luncheon on the pier for the crew as well as a gift for Ima Black, the Ship Sponsor.

We are currently accepting donations/sponsorship for this event.