The USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79), the first of the Arleigh Burke Flight 2A Aegis destroyers and the 17th Bath Iron Works-built, was commissioned in Norfolk Naval Station on Saturday August 19, 2000. Ship sponsor Dianne Reason, wife of retired admiral Paul Reason, brought the ship to life. Retired Rear Admiral Wayne E. Meyer, father of Aegis, conducted the tradition of the passing of the Long glass to the first officer of the watch. The Flight 2A is a variant of the Burke class. It has full-up helo facilities, carrying up to two SH-60B Seahawk helicopters. The destroyer's first commanding officer is Commander Paul C. Smith USN and Executive officer Lieutenant Commander Thomas F. Schwarz USN.