By CAROL A. CLARK
Los Alamos Daily Post
caclark@ladailypost.com

Los Alamos native Le Andra Kissinger (Minor) is set to become captain of the USS Beloit (LCS 29) when the war ship is commissioned in 2024.

The United States Navy christened the USS Beloit, a Freedom-variant littoral combat ship (LCS), during a ceremony Saturday, May 7 in Marinette, WI. Building of the warship began in July 2020 and the christening marks the transition from new construction to the test and trials phase.

“Growing up in Los Alamos made me who I am,” Kissinger said during a telephone interview May 7 from Marinette, WI. “I value my beginnings there and the message I would like to share is there is a whole world to explore, and I hope people will seek the same opportunities to see and serve our county as I have.”

Commander Kissinger explained how she came to decide on the Navy for her military service career.

“Initially it was just the prospect to want to serve my country … the Navy offered a program that allowed me to serve while completing my education and that made the difference,” Commander Kissinger said. “I stay in because of the sailors – they really make my life. They come from across the country and all walks of life, and it is just an honor to serve with them every day.”

A surface warfare officer, Commander Kissinger was commissioned through Officer Candidates School in Pensacola, Fl. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from the University of Central Florida and a Master’s degree in Nuclear Engineering Management from Old Dominion University.

Childhood friend DeAnna DeHaven said that Kissinger would have graduated from Los Alamos High School in the Class of 1993, but her family moved to Florida after her junior year. The friends grew up on Fairway Drive and attended Mountain Elementary School together.

“Le Andra has been determined her whole life … she has always been that one to chase her dreams and meet her goals,” DeHaven said. “This is a remarkable achievement, and we are all very proud of her.”

At sea, Commander Kissinger has served as Ordnance Officer aboard the USS McInerny (FFG 8), Reactors Control Officer aboard the USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), Operations Officer aboard USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), and Main Propulsion Assistant aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). She is currently the Executive Officer on USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) stationed in Norfolk, VA.

Ashore, Commander Kissinger served as Readiness Control Officer instructor for the Littoral Training Facility, Mayport, FL, followed by the Deputy Officer in Charge for the Mobile Training Center Commander Naval Surface Force Pacific (COMMNAVSURPAC), San Diego, CA. 

Commander Kissinger has served on teams recognized with many awards and is the recipient of the Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, and various unit, campaign, and service awards.

Kissinger is the daughter of former Los Alamos residents Gail and Pat Minor.

Commander Le Andra Kissinger of the USS Beloit, left, with ship sponsor Major General Marcia M. Anderson in front of a time capsule and its contents, which will be welded into the ship forever. Courtesy photo

Commander Le Andra Kissinger with sisters La Ora Stewart and Regina Bennett and ship sponsor Major General Marcia M. Anderson .Courtesy photo