Pride in Every Weld: Structural Welder Plays Key Role in Philadelphia (LPD 32) Keel Event

Pride in Every Weld: Structural Welder Plays Key Role in Philadelphia (LPD 32) Keel Event 

Ingalls Shipbuilding division marked an important milestone March 3, 2026, with the keel authentication of future USS Philadelphia (LPD 32), a Flight II San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship. 

As the company celebrates this milestone, we recognize the shipbuilders whose craftsmanship, pride and dedication make these achievements possible. One of those shipbuilders is 28-year structural welder Cory Dillon, whose experience during the ceremony is shared in the story below. Cory’s story reflects the commitment and skill that drive every stage of construction at Ingalls. As work continues on Philadelphia and future ships in the fleet, we remain proud of the shipbuilders who bring these vessels to life. 

Ingalls Shipbuilder Spotlight: Cory Dillon, Philadelphia (LPD 32) Keel Welder 

For 28-year structural welder Cory Dillon, tracing the keel sponsor’s initials into the steel of Philadelphia (LPD 32) wasn’t just another job task. In fact, it was a milestone he’d quietly hoped for. It’s a role he watched friends take on in the past, and one he’d always hoped to experience himself. 

“I’ve been out here a long time, and it feels good to get a chance like this,” said Dillon. “It’s special to have a significant role in a part of the company’s history.” 

The Louisiana native came to Ingalls after struggling to find work back home. Encouraged by an uncle already working in the shipyard, he packed up, took the welding test and started a career he never expected would shape his life the way it did. 

“When I first got here, I had no clue what I was stepping into,” said Dillon. “Some older guys took me under their wing and showed me the ropes. Now I try to do the same thing for the young guys coming in.” 

Over the years, Cory has learned to appreciate not just the craft, but the mission behind it. Seeing the ships he helped build sail out gives him a sense of pride. 

“It's an honor to actually see something you’ve built come to life,” said Dillon. “It's amazing to see our ships go from nothing, to something that will help protect our freedom.” 

That pride grew even deeper when he learned he’d been selected to be the welder during the ship’s keel authentication ceremony. Despite nearly 30 years on the job, Cory’s motivation remains steady. 

“Money, pride and responsibilities is what got me here,” said Dillon. “I tell all the newer shipbuilders to learn the job, do the job and focus. If you can follow that then the sky’s the limit.” 

Ingalls welcomed local media to the keel authentication ceremony for LPD 32. Check out the coverage from WXXV and WLOX. 
Link: https://www.wxxv25.com/keel-authentication-ceremony-at-ingalls-shipbuilding-2/ 
Link: https://www.wlox.com/2026/03/04/keel-laying-ceremony-future-uss-philadelphia/ 

Read more about the Philadelphia (LPD 32) keel ceremony.