Members of Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Crew 110, assigned to Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Wichita (LCS 13) traveled to Wichita, Kansas to reveal the newest LCS's crest to the community during a ceremony held at the Wichita Art Museum July 2 and participate in local community events.

"This ship and the dedicated people who serve on her are part of our community; as they serve our country, we will serve them," said Wichita Mayor Jeff Longwell. "I want her crew to know that no matter where they are or where they may lay your head at night, Wichita is your home."

LCS Crew 110 Commanding Officer, Cmdr. Shockey Snyder, followed Longwell in remembering the 80 years of service past ships bearing the name USS Wichita provided.

"I want to start to make that link with the city of Wichita," said Snyder. "I want you to know this will be your ship, too. Starting today, I want you all to take part in the events of the ship's life, and I want you to be proud of the United States warship that bears your city's name as it goes forth to do the work of this great nation."

Together, Longwell, Scott Bishop on behalf of Congressman Mike Pompeo, and Snyder unveiled the newly designed crest to the crowd of veterans, active-duty service members, civic leaders, supporters, and other community members. The crest has many symbolic references to Wichita in its design, including the colors of the shield and the Zia Sun, which are some of the elements taken from the flag of the city of Wichita.

After the ceremony, guests had an opportunity to take pictures alongside the crest and talk to Sailors from LCS Crew 110.
During the visit LCS Crew 110 also kept busy by giving back to the community. The Sailors visited Wichita's Veteran Affairs Hospital and spent time with elderly and ill patients.

Information Technician 1st Class Devin Tedrow was touched by his time at the VA Hospital.

"Our visit to the VA Hospital in Wichita, Kansas was an amazing experience," said Tedrow. "It truly put in perspective the service and sacrifices previous service members endured to pave the wave for the current active members. Being able to say 'thank you' and swap military stories with veterans is the simplest form of showing gratitude."

LCS Crew 110 also assisted Tom Burns, one of two food truck coordinators, to prepare over 700 dinners for those who came to the Hilltop Community Center in southeast Wichita. The food truck is one of four locations that prepare meals daily for those in need.

"Giving back to any community is a gift itself," reflected Command Master Chief Timothy Hardin. "We're all happy to have the chance to visit Wichita to participate in the unveiling of our ship's crest. Spending a few hours of our day to make meals for the less fortunate and show a town which has little Navy presence that we care, I hope that is not soon forgotten."

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