Spencer, Iowa (Northwestiowanow.com) — You can witness a piece of naval history at a special watch party this Saturday to celebrate the commissioning of the newest USS IOWA SSN 797 submarine.

Clay County Veteran Affairs Director Katie Ginger explains what to expect at the event:

The commissioning ceremony, a significant event marking the official entry of the submarine into active service with the U.S. Navy, happens live Saturday morning in Groton, Connecticut. However, the USS IOWA Commissioning Committee, dedicated to honoring the ship and its crew for years, wanted to ensure Iowans across the state could share in this momentous occasion.

The Spencer watch party, hosted at the Veterans Hall, will allow residents to view the live broadcast of the ceremony, learn more about the USS IOWA and meet with veteran resources.

The Commissioning of the USS Iowa SSN 797 is the fifth major event in the life of a ship as she becomes a US fighting vessel.  The first four events included the naming in 2015, official beginning of construction in 2019.  The Christening is the third milestone when the name IOWA and the submarine are officially matched together by both the shipbuilder and the Navy.  The fourth is the delivery of the sub to the Navy, which was completed in December.

Clay County VA Director says the entire region around Clay County is invited to this free event.

The USS Iowa Commissioning Committee was formed to generate funds necessary for upgrades for the crew, like habitability, reaction sports equipment, and other items not funded by feral appropriations.