SAN DIEGO (July 17, 2021) The Navy christened its first John Lewis-class replenishment oiler, the future USNS John Lewis (T-AO 205), during a ceremony in San Diego. Among the speakers were the ship’s sponsor Alfre Woodard Spencer (left) and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi. The 742-foot-long ship, named in honor of the late politician and civil rights leader, will join the Military Sealift Command as part of the Navy’s Combat Logistics Force. Named for prominent civil rights leaders and activists, John Lewis-class oilers will transfer fuel to U.S. Navy carrier strike group ships operating at sea, the oilers will feature the capacity to carry 157,000 barrels of oil, a significant dry cargo capacity, aviation capability and up to a speed of 20 knots. (Photo courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO)