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Today’s Star Spangled Salute honors the latest commissioned warship in the Navy’s fleet and the man and family it’s named after. The Navy commissioned its newest Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Frank E. Petersen, Jr. (DDG 121), May 14 in Charleston, South Carolina.  Topeka native Frank E Peterson Jr. was described as a warrior and part of a family legacy of warriors that started with his Great Grandfather who was part of the Mass 55th Company E in the Civil War. The USS Frank E. Petersen, Jr. honors Lt. Gen. Frank E. Petersen, Jr. (USMC Ret.). Petersen was the first black USMC aviator and the first black Marine to become a three-star general. Petersen served two combat tours, Korea in 1953 and Vietnam in 1968. He flew more than 350 combat missions and had over 4,000 hours in various fighter and attack aircraft. Petersen passed away in Aug. 2015 at the age of 83. Retiring in 1988 after 38 years of service, Petersen’s awards included the Defense Superior Service Medal; Legion of Merit with Combat “V”; Distinguished Flying Cross; Purple Heart; Meritorious Service Medal; Air Medal; Navy Commendation Medal with Combat “V;” and the Air Force Commendation Medal. To all who will serve aboard the USS Frank E Peterson Jr. and to her namesake, THANK YOU for your service.