WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., co-chairs of the bipartisan Senate Navy Caucus, released the following statements to celebrate the 243^rd birthday of the U.S. Navy, which was established on October 13, 1775.

“From the two ships authorized by the Second Continental Congress to the 355-ship fleet now required because of my ‘SHIPS Act,’ naval power has been and will continue to be essential to keeping the American people safe,” Wicker said. “As the new co-chair of the Navy Caucus with Senator Shaheen, and as the Chairman of the Seapower Subcommittee, I congratulate the U.S. Navy and all Navy veterans on 243 years of service to the security of our homeland.”

“The brave men and women of the U.S. Navy put their lives on the line to keep our nation safe, and I am incredibly grateful for their service and dedication to our freedom and security,” said Shaheen. “In New Hampshire we are especially proud of the contributions the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard makes to our Navy and national defense, and I will continue to advocate to support service members and veterans in the Granite State and across the country. Thank you for answering the call of duty, and very happy 243rd Birthday!”