Which ship was the first to be named after an enlisted person?

The USS Osmond Ingram holds the distinction of being the first ship named after an enlisted person in the U.S. Navy. Osmond Ingram was a sailor who received the Medal of Honor for his bravery during World War I, specifically for his actions in saving his ship and crew from a submarine attack. Naming a vessel after an enlisted person marked a significant recognition of their contributions and sacrifices, which had not traditionally been acknowledged in the same way as those of commissioned officers.

This initiative reflected an evolving attitude within the Navy towards the valor and importance of enlisted personnel. As a consequence, the USS Osmond Ingram became a symbol of this shift, showing that the Navy valued the bravery and dedication of all sailors, not just those in command positions. This naming convention has continued, with other ships subsequently being named after enlisted service members, thus honoring their service and achievements.