USS Texas (SSN-775)

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Career (US)	Image:Naval Jack of the United States.svg <tr valign=top><td>Ordered:</td><td>30 September 1999</td></tr>
The Pre-Commissioning Unit Texas is launched for the first time.
Laid down:	12 July 2003
Launched:	9 April 2006 <tr valign=top><td>Commissioned:</td><td>9 September 2006</td></tr>
Status:	Active in service
General Characteristics
Displacement:	7800 tons
Length:	114.9 m (377 ft)
Beam:	10.3 m (34 ft) <tr valign=top><td>Propulsion:</td><td>S9G reactor</td></tr>
Speed:	<tr valign=top><td>Range:</td><td>Measured in terms of time (life-of-the-ship; approx. 33 years) [1]</td></tr>
Complement:	officers, men <tr valign=top><td>Motto:</td><td>Don't Mess with Texas</td></tr>

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 Lone Star State.

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.

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

[edit] 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 our nation. Located within the state outline is a symbol of the atom, representing the awesome warfighting capability and endurance afforded Texas by nuclear power.

Texas is backed by the traditional badge of the legendary Texas Rangers. This identifies the singularity of purpose between the men who enforce Texas law and the sailors who will man this fine warship to preserve freedom. The four white stars represent the four American warships to bear the name of the great 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."