Groton — The state of North Dakota recognized its namesake submarine, the North Dakota (SSN 784), by proclaiming Jan. 11 “USS North Dakota Day.”

The North Dakota is a Virginia-class submarine currently under construction at Electric Boat. Cmdr. Doug Gordon, the submarine’s commanding officer, visited the state, Jan. 9 to 11, to participate in the events surrounding the day and update residents about the construction.

“Namesake visits, particularly when one day of the year is named after the future USS North Dakota, are truly special markers to remember during our boat’s construction,” Gordon said.

Gov. Jack Dalrymple issued the proclamation recognizing USS North Dakota Day. It states, “The USS North Dakota will represent the most advanced Virginia-class nuclear powered attack submarine in the world when commissioned in 2014; and the USS North Dakota is a source of pride and honor for us all; and it is fitting to recognize our boat and her crew and to celebrate this outstanding addition to the U.S. Navy.”

The submarine will become only the second ship named in honor of North Dakota, with the other being the battleship USS North Dakota, which was in service from 1910 to 1923.