WASHINGTON DC (KNWA/KFTA) — President Joe Biden announced on Monday that two Navy aircraft carriers will be named after former presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. "The future USS William J. Clinton (CVN 82) and the future USS George W. Bush (CVN 83) will begin construction in the years ahead," Biden said in a statement. FILE - President Bill Clinton, right, and President-elect George W. Bush pose for photographers as they head to the Oval Office at the White House Dec. 19, 2000. (AP Photo/Ron Edmonds, File) “When I personally delivered the news to Bill and George, they were deeply humbled,” Biden continued. “Each knows firsthand the weight of the responsibilities that come with being Commander-in-Chief. And both know well our duty to support the families and loved ones who wait and worry for the safe return of their servicemember.” A news release from the U.S. Navy said the names follow a tradition of naming aircraft carriers after U.S. presidents. Biden said construction on the two aircraft carriers is coming "in the years ahead." Once completed, "They will join the most capable, flexible, and professional Navy that has ever put to sea," Biden said. Secretary of the U.S. Navy Carlos Del Toro hailed the decision saying both presidents led the United States through some of the most challenging moments in the country's history. "Their legacies will endure through these aircraft carriers, which serve as formidable platforms dedicated to safeguarding our national security and strengthening our resolve to protect this Nation against any who would threaten our freedoms and way of life," Del Toro said. Clinton served as the 40th and 42nd governor of Arkansas. He served as the 42nd President of the United States from 1993 to 2001. "It’s never far from my mind that the precious freedoms Americans enjoy are safeguarded by our armed forces, anchored by a strong, modern, and agile Navy. I’m honored that future servicemembers carrying on that proud tradition will serve on a carrier bearing my name," Clinton said in a statement. Bush served as the 43rd President of the United States from 2001 to 2009. "I am honored that my name will be associated with the United States Navy and a symbol of our Nation's might," Bush said. "I have a special admiration for the men and women of our Navy - including my dad - and ask God to watch over this ship and those who sail aboard her."