The House has recently passed a resolution to rename a segment of State Highway 558 after a significant historical naval figure. Put forth by State Rep. Chris May, the House Concurrent Resolution 10 urges the Indiana Department of Transportation to designate the stretch of road between U.S. Highway 231 and the Northwest Gate of Naval Support Activity Crane as the "Commodore Crane Highway." This new designation aims to honor both the past and present contributions of Naval Support Activity Crane to the nation's defense. The resolution was passed in acknowledgment of the area's deep military roots and ongoing importance.
"Renaming this portion of State Highway 558 as the Commodore Crane Highway is a fitting way to recognize the deep military history of the Crane installation and its contributions to our nation," May said, as reported by Indiana House Republicans. The stretch of highway reflects the legacy of Commodore William Montgomery Crane, who served as the U.S. Navy’s first Chief of the Bureau of Ordnance. The gesture also signifies the ongoing role of Naval Support Activity Crane in supporting modern day military operations.
The historical context for this renaming traces back to World War II, during which Congress passed the National Defense Appropriation Act of 1941. This led to the establishment of an ammunition production facility in Burns City, Indiana, chosen for its seclusion and infrastructure. In 1943, the depot was renamed in honor of Commodore Crane, acknowledging his critical role in the development of Navy ordnance. The base has since evolved to support various defense missions, providing services that are essential to the United States' national security.
Today, Naval Support Activity Crane stands as the third-largest naval installation in the world. Home to key commands such as the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, and the Crane Army Ammunition Activity, these entities together form what is known as Team Crane. "Crane provides global support to the United States Navy, Army and joint war-fighting missions, and represents one of Indiana's most significant strategic, economic and national security assets," May emphasized on Indiana House Republicans. HCR 10 now moves to the Senate, and upon approval, the Indiana Department of Transportation can begin to implement the renaming on the ground.
