Navy Crew Members of Future USS Idaho Visit Treasure Valley

Wed Apr 23rd, 2025

KTVB - April 22, 2025 - Story by Richard Rodriguez

Three crew members from the future USS Idaho are visiting the Treasure Valley this week. They're connecting with Idahoans as representatives of the first Navy vessel named after the state in over a century.

The USS Idaho, a Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarine, was christened in Connecticut with a bottle filled with water from several Idaho lakes and named on March 16, 2024. The vessel is currently undergoing systems testing in preparation for sea trials and is expected to be commissioned into active U.S. Navy service approximately one year from now.

The USS Idaho Commissioning Committee has organized several events during the sailors' visit, including a ceremonial signing of Senate Bill 1153 with Gov. Brad Little on Tuesday. The bill authorizes a commemorative Idaho license plate honoring the commissioning of the submarine.

Idahoans who want the commemorative Idaho license plate need to act fast. According to the law signed today, the plate will only be available until July 2030.

On Wednesday, the Egyptian Theater will host an advance screening of Idaho Public Television's documentary "America's Sagebrush Navy," preceded by a reception where the public can meet the crew members. The documentary explores Idaho's historical connection to the Navy, including the development of nuclear propulsion systems tested in the state's desert.

The three crewmembers' visit concludes on Thursday with a public reception at the Warhawk Museum in Nampa.