USS Daniel Webster (SSBN-626)

USS "Daniel Webster" (SSBN-626), a "Lafayette"-class ballistic missile submarine, was the only ship of the United States Navy to be named for Senator Daniel Webster (1782–1852).

The contract to build her was awarded to the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics Corporation in Groton, Connecticut on 3 February 1961 and her keel was laid down on 28 December 1961. She was launched on 27 April 1963 sponsored by Mrs. W. Osborn Goodrich, Jr., and commissioned on 9 April 1964, with Commander Marvin S. Blair in command of the Blue Crew and Commander Lloyd S. Smith in command of the Gold Crew.

"Webster" was originally built with planes mounted above the hull near the bow, giving way to the submariner's nickname "Old Funny Fins". This unique configuration was an attempt to reduce the effect of porpoising, but they increased water resistance and lowered her overall speed. During her first overhaul, these unusual planes were removed and standard fairwater planes were installed.

"Daniel Webster" was decommissioned on 30 August 1990 and stricken from the Naval Vessel Register the same day. Ex-"Daniel Webster" was converted to a Moored Training Ship (S5W Prototype facility) by the Charleston Naval Shipyard. Upon completion and now designated "MTS-626," she was towed up river to her permanent berth at the Naval Nuclear Power Training Unit, Charleston, South Carolina.

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