Whereas Robert Smalls was born in Beaufort, South Carolina, in 1839, during a time when African Americans were enslaved, and their rights and freedoms were systematically denied; Whereas despite the oppressive conditions of slavery, Robert Smalls exhibited exceptional bravery, intelligence, and unwavering determination throughout his life, defying the constraints placed upon him; Whereas Robert Smalls gained national acclaim on May 13, 1862, when he orchestrated a daring escape from Charleston Harbor aboard the Confederate vessel CSS Planter, which he commandeered while its White crew was ashore; Whereas, by impersonating the captain and using intricate knowledge of the ship’s workings, Robert Smalls successfully navigated past Confederate defenses, freeing himself, his family, and several enslaved individuals onboard, ultimately delivering the ship to the Union Navy; Whereas Robert Smalls’ courageous act was a turning point in the Civil War and a significant contribution to the Union cause, demonstrating both his ingenuity and his commitment to the principles of freedom and justice; Whereas following the war, Robert Smalls played an instrumental role in the Reconstruction period, serving as a Delegate to the South Carolina Constitutional Convention and later becoming the first African American elected to the House of Representatives from South Carolina; Whereas throughout his life, Robert Smalls continued to advocate for civil rights and equal opportunities for all, leaving an indelible mark on American history as a visionary leader, legislator, and champion of justice; and Whereas the renaming of the USS Chancellorsville to the USS Robert Smalls pays homage to a remarkable individual who exemplified courage, resilience, and a tireless commitment to freedom and equality: Now, therefore, be it