TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Navy's Ning Yang frigate (寧陽軍艦) has returned to active duty following a major overhaul completed late last year, CNA reported Thursday.
A prominent feature of the ship's hangar is a banner bearing the slogan “Never Give Up My Ship,” a phrase inspired by a famous US naval battle cry. It was first displayed by Captain Wang Pin-ching (王品清), who served as the ship's commanding officer from Sept. 1, 2013, to March 1, 2015.
CNA reporters observed personnel at the Naval Suao Logistic Support Command as they conducted maintenance tasks on the frigate. These included welding, painting, electrical, and power testing.
The slogan “Never Give Up My Ship” is inspired by a historic moment during the War of 1812 between the US and the UK. In a close-quarters battle, the USS Chesapeake engaged the British HMS Shannon in a cannon fight.
Captain James Lawrence of the Chesapeake was mortally wounded by a British sniper. As he was being carried to the deck for treatment, he famously uttered the words, “Don't give up the ship.”
Although historical records differ on whether it was “the ship” or “my ship,” the phrase became a well-known battle cry of the US Navy, symbolizing resilience and dedication to the last moment.
In a similar vein, Taiwan’s Tuo Chiang-class corvette PGG-618 (沱江級原型艦沱江艦) is steeped in historical significance. The ship’s name honors the brave actions of the Tuo Chiang PC-104 (沱江軍艦) during the 1958 second Taiwan Strait crisis.
The Tuo Chiang was awarded an honorary "tiger flag" for its valor, a replica of which is now displayed on the Tuo Chiang prototype ship. A painting depicting the original vessel navigating through rough seas serves as inspiration for the ship's crew.
The Taiwan Navy, part of the global naval community, has inherited many military traditions from 17th-century European fleets. For instance, during public open days at naval bases, it is common to see narrow “commissioning pennants” hanging from ship masts.
The tradition stemmed from the Anglo-Dutch Wars, symbolizing naval honor and military achievements.
Other naval symbols include the "V" painted on ships to signify exceptional performance in annual training. The yellow stars on Hsiung Feng missile (雄風飛彈) launch containers indicate hits during live-fire exercises.
