USS Texas (SSN-775)

USS Texas (SSN-775) is a Virginia-class submarine, and the fourth ship of the United States Navy to be named in honor of the state of Texas.

The contract to build her was awarded to the Northrop Grumman Newport News shipyard (then called Newport News Shipbuilding & Drydock Co.) in Newport News, Virginia on 30 September 1998 and her keel was laid down on 12 July 2002. She was christened on 31 July 2004 by Laura Bush, First Lady of the United States. She was launched into the James River on 9 April 2005.

Operations
Under the command of Captain John Litherland, Texas arrived at Galveston Bay on 4 September 2006 and was escorted into the harbor by Elissa. Texas was commissioned in Galveston, Texas, and joined the U.S. Atlantic Fleet on 9 September 2006.

The ship, under the command of Commander Robert Roncska, departed New London Naval Submarine Base at Groton for Pearl Harbor on 16 September 2009. On its way to Pearl Harbor, the sub traveled to the Arctic Ocean and surfaced near the North Pole's ice pack. Due to the thickness of the ice on the West Coast, the sub turned around and completed its westbound transit via the Panama Canal. The Texas arrived in her new home port on 23 November 2009.

The sub departed Pearl Harbor for her first three-month operational patrol on 19 May 2010. The location of the ship's first deployment was not disclosed by the Navy.

As of May 2012, the submarine is undergoing a scheduled 20-month long overhaul.

Ship's crest
"In the forefront is a full view of Texas, ready to go forth and take the fight to the enemy. Emblazoned on her hull is the shape of the state of Texas, denoting the outstanding patriotism and leadership the citizens of Texas have contributed to the American nation.  Located within the state outline is a symbol of the atom, representing the warfighting capability and endurance afforded Texas by nuclear power.

Texas is backed by the traditional badge of the Texas Rangers. This identifies the singularity of purpose between the men and women who enforce Texas law and the sailors. The four white stars represent the four American warships to bear the name of the state of Texas. "Don't Mess with Texas" is a well known state slogan and a warning for those who attempt to prevent Texas from carrying out her mission. The battle scarred Lone Star flag flying behind Texas represents the gallant heroism of those who fought and died at the Alamo to ensure the future of Texas, and it also represents the perseverance with which Texas and her crew will endure through all missions that are put before her."