As we reflect on the courage and resilience of our veterans this coming Monday, I want to share the incredible story of Captain Charlie Plumb.
Growing up as a farm kid from Kansas, he dreamed of seeing the world and serving his country. He joined the U.S. Navy, became a Top Gun pilot, and flew 74 combat missions. But on his last mission, just five days from returning home, his plane was shot down over Hanoi. Captured and held as a prisoner of war for nearly six years, he endured unimaginable hardships, surviving in an 8×8 cell and suffering brutal treatment, all while separated from his family.
When he was finally freed, Captain Plumb’s first flight home stopped at Clark Air Base in the Philippines. He called home, only to hear the devastating news that his wife, who had waited for five long years, had filed for divorce just three months before his release. It was yet another challenge, but he faced it as he had all the others—with strength, resilience, and the unshakeable will to move forward.
Captain Plumb’s story is a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices our veterans make. He shows us that adversity is, as he says, a “horrible thing to waste,” encouraging us to face our own challenges with courage and hope.
To veterans everywhere thank you. Your resilience, and commitment inspire every day. I am forever grateful for your service and sacrifice.
In a recent decision reflecting the Navy’s commitment to sustaining fleet capabilities, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced that three Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruisers—USS Cape St. George (CG-71), USS Gettysburg (CG-64), and USS Chosin (CG-65)—will remain in service beyond their originally planned decommissioning dates.
This decision extends their operational lives by a collective 10 years, with USS Gettysburg and USS Chosin having recently completed significant modernization upgrades. USS Cape St. George is slated to wrap up its upgrades this fiscal year.
These ships are vital assets in maintaining naval power, particularly as new ships are still under construction. The modernization program has equipped these cruisers with advanced hull, mechanical, engineering, and combat systems, ensuring they meet the material readiness standards needed to support Navy missions worldwide.
Notably, USS Chosin recently demonstrated the Navy’s Transferrable Reload At-sea Mechanism (TRAM) technology, allowing for at-sea missile reloading from a replenishment ship. This innovation underscores the importance of maintaining a fleet ready for action without needing to return to port—a key capability in contested regions.
Originally, the Navy had aimed to keep half of its Ticonderoga-class cruisers operational into the 2030s. However, challenges in the modernization program led to the retirement of many cruisers, with only three completing the upgrades necessary to remain in service. This announcement comes on the heels of a similar extension for 12 Flight I Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, which, together, mark a strategic push to preserve fleet strength while waiting for new vessels.
These extensions are not just about numbers but a clear commitment to a robust Navy ready to face global challenges. As new technological advancements become part of the fleet’s capabilities, maintaining these battle-tested platforms ensures the Navy continues to meet its objectives in an evolving security landscape.
Today, with the sentencing of Leonard “Fat Leonard” Francis to 15 years in prison, the U.S. Navy closes a painful chapter in its history—a chapter that has left a lasting black eye on an institution known for its honor and commitment. Francis’s decade-long bribery scheme, which ensnared dozens of high-ranking officers, stained the Navy’s reputation and highlighted vulnerabilities in military contracting that few would have imagined possible. This editorial is a reminder of both the need for accountability and the resilience of the honest, dedicated men and women who serve our Navy with integrity.
A Scandal of Unimaginable Scale The revelations around the Fat Leonard scandal have been shocking: lavish parties, Kobe beef, fine cigars, and cash exchanged for critical classified information and special favors. This wasn’t just a case of bribery; it was a breach of trust that exposed Navy operations to corruption and mismanagement at an unimaginable scale. The scandal reached as high as the first active-duty admiral to be convicted of a federal crime, creating deep and lasting implications for the Navy’s image.
A Call for Accountability Francis’s sentencing may seem like justice served, but the journey to accountability is far from over. Though some officers have faced consequences, we know that the ripple effects of this scandal have impacted thousands of sailors who honorably serve every day, distancing themselves from this dark episode and instead focusing on the Navy’s mission. For these sailors and those of us who believe in a stronger, more accountable Navy, Leonard’s sentencing underscores a broader mission: to reinforce integrity, transparency, and accountability within Navy procurement and beyond.
Americans for a Stronger Navy: A Mission of Integrity At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we’ve communicated over the last few years about the importance of maintaining rigorous standards in Navy operations and procurement practices. Our Navy deserves the resources it needs to safeguard our nation, but it also deserves to operate within systems of integrity and transparency. We call for continued reform and vigilance in military contracting, not merely to avoid another scandal but to ensure that taxpayer dollars go toward strengthening our fleet and supporting those who serve.
Turning a New Page As this chapter closes, let us reflect on the millions of honorable sailors who uphold our Navy’s values despite scandals like these. The dedicated men and women of the U.S. Navy are not defined by the actions of a few but by their collective commitment to duty, honor, and country. With the Fat Leonard scandal behind us, it’s time to turn a new page—one that reaffirms our Navy’s values and strengthens its foundation for the future.
Conclusion In closing, we hope that this unfortunate episode serves as a rallying point, a reminder of the Navy’s resilience, and a call for enduring integrity in all facets of military service. As citizens, let us continue to support a Navy that stands by its values and remains steadfast in its mission.
Americans Must Rally: A Call for Accountability, Transparency, Action, and Sustainability in Protecting Our Maritime Future
Dear gCaptain Team, Officers, and Readers,
Bill Cullifer, Founder
Your recent article, “Could Trump Rebuild and Repair The U.S. Navy?”, has sparked crucial questions about the future of our Navy and maritime security. We find ourselves in strong agreement with the article’s urgent call for action within the first 100 days of the next administration. While leadership may change, our commitment to a stronger Navy and secure maritime future must remain constant. The need for a comprehensive fleet readiness review, a revitalized industrial base, and a stronger Navy and civilian maritime workforce are clear. These steps underscore the essential measures needed to sustain and fortify our national maritime capabilities.
This mission, however, extends beyond any one administration—it requires enduring bipartisan support and a commitment from all Americans to ensure the resilience and strength of our Navy. As Dale A. Jenkins, Senior Advisor to Americans for a Stronger Navy, Staff Director of the Council on Foreign Relations in New York, and author of Diplomats and Admirals, reminds us,
“True strength isn’t built overnight or through short-term gains. It’s a sustained commitment—one rooted in strategic thinking and a shared vision of America’s future on the world stage.” – Dale A. Jenkins
By fostering a united approach, we can address the challenges our Navy faces and secure a sustainable, long-term future for America’s maritime security.
The Need for Public Trust and Involvement
As the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I share your sense of urgency. Our Navy is underfunded and overstretched, struggling to maintain basic readiness in the face of rising global instability. Yet, the solutions to these challenges lie not only within government circles but also in greater public accountability. To that end, we must actively strengthen trust by engaging informed community who bring credibility and understanding to the table, rather than overwhelming the Navy with generalized public input.
Heightened Threats: Cybersecurity and Misinformation Campaigns
The threats we face today are more immediate and serious than many realize. Adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran have repeatedly demonstrated their willingness to hack critical infrastructure and disrupt telecommunications networks. Recent breaches—such as the infiltration of presidential cell phones and sustained attacks targeting U.S. energy, transportation, and communication systems—highlight the vulnerabilities at our nation’s strategic chokepoints. These adversaries are also engaged in misinformation campaigns aimed at disrupting our elections and undermining public discourse. In these volatile times, protecting the Navy also means protecting the commerce and infrastructure that support our economic security. Our readiness to secure these critical pathways is essential to maintaining both national stability and global trade.
Communicating Threats with Clarity
It’s no secret that Americans are weary of “sky-is-falling” rhetoric. Recent messaging around foreign threats and national security has met with mixed reactions, with figures like Senator Rand Paul raising questions about threat exaggeration and others comparing current concerns to past overhyped crises like Y2K. Yet today’s threats are uniquely layered and immediate; they extend beyond traditional warfare into digital, economic, and strategic domains that impact every American. As Reagan wisely put it,
“Our reluctance for conflict should not be misjudged as a failure of will. When action is required to preserve our national security, we will act.” – Ronald Reagan
Overreactions and misdeeds by bad actors have eroded trust, making it crucial that these real and present dangers are communicated with clarity and restraint. Our task, then, is to educate Americans with transparency, balance, and practical information. To do this effectively, we must break out of our silos and work together across organizations, agencies, and forums to foster the lasting support needed for a stronger Navy and a resilient maritime sector.
Building a Sustainable, Long-Term Impact
At Americans for a Stronger Navy, our mission is to educate, engage, and rally Americans around the critical importance of maritime security to national stability and prosperity. We believe the key to lasting impact lies in building a “groundswell of support” from the American people. History shows us the importance of such buy-in; Reagan’s successful naval expansion during the Cold War was driven by bipartisan support and public backing, creating a sustainable, long-term defense initiative. As Reagan once said,
“Strength is the most persuasive argument we have to convince our adversaries to negotiate seriously and to cease bullying other nations.”- Ronald Reagan
While the president undoubtedly influences these decisions, we know from experience that initiatives without public buy-in and congressional support are destined to struggle. Americans also need a clearer understanding of what’s at stake and why these actions matter.
Our Path Forward
Engaging Veteran Groups and Nonprofit Organizations: We propose enlisting veteran groups, nonprofits, and civic organizations to help bridge the gap between the Navy and the American public. These groups offer credibility and firsthand experience, helping Americans understand the Navy’s role beyond headlines and defense budgets. Their connection to local communities is invaluable in turning national support into local action.
A Smarter, More Comprehensive Public Strategy: Rather than working in silos, we must consider the taxpayer in every recommendation. Americans are fatigued with crisis messaging, so our approach must be nuanced, practical, and respectful of their investment. Taxpayers need to see where their support goes, with a clear view of how a stronger Navy directly contributes to national and economic security.
Fostering Long-Term, Congressional Support and Collaboration: Rallying Americans for a stronger Navy isn’t about party lines—it’s about protecting our nation’s future. To achieve this, we must create a platform that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement. Such a united approach can help avoid politicizing the Navy, reinforcing that naval readiness is a shared national responsibility that resonates beyond any one administration.
Expanding on gCaptain’s Key Recommendations:
Comprehensive Fleet Readiness Review: We support a thorough review of our fleet, shipyards, and industrial base, with an eye toward transparency. Bringing in a volunteer committee of former Navy personnel could lend critical insights, ensuring the review captures both strategic needs and firsthand realities.
Halting Early Decommissioning: Rather than prematurely retiring ships, we need creative, cost-effective solutions to extend their service. Involving experienced veterans and industry experts can provide valuable perspectives on this approach, minimizing strategic gaps.
Building a Stronger Maritime Workforce: We echo the call for a revitalized maritime workforce but stress that this must come with taxpayer accountability and public support.
An American Imperative
This is not a left or right initiative—it is an American imperative. As John F. Kennedy wisely said, “Let us not seek the Republican answer or the Democratic answer, but the right answer.” Today, we echo that call for unity. The threats we face are larger than many realize, and we cannot afford to let partisan divisions stand in the way of building the Navy we need. We call for community leaders to unite under a common voice, advocating for a stronger Navy, greater accountability, and a sustainable foundation for our maritime security. By fostering long-term resilience and preparedness, together, we can protect our maritime future for generations to come.
Sincerely, Bill Cullifer Founder, Americans for a Stronger Navy
From the desk of Bill Cullifer, Founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy
Dear Mr. Zakheim,
I recently read your opinion piece in The Hill on October 18, 2024, titled “How the Navy Can Solve Its Submarine Shortage,” with great interest. Dov S. Zakheim, a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and vice chairman of the board for the Foreign Policy Research Institute, brings unparalleled expertise to this discussion. As a former undersecretary of Defense (comptroller) and chief financial officer for the Department of Defense from 2001 to 2004, as well as deputy undersecretary of Defense from 1985 to 1987, your insights on defense spending, strategic planning, and military capabilities are invaluable in understanding the complexities of the U.S. Navy’s submarine deficit.
The challenges the Navy faces in maintaining and expanding its submarine force are central to the security and operational effectiveness of the United States and its allies. At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we have long advocated for solutions to bolster our naval capabilities in light of growing global threats.
Your analysis of the potential for non-nuclear alternatives, including unmanned submarines and diesel-electric options, highlights viable paths for supplementing our fleet. However, after discussing these ideas with Captain Brent Sadler, U.S. Navy (Retired), Senior Fellow for Naval Warfare and Advanced Technology at The Heritage Foundation, a 26-year Navy veteran with extensive operational experience on nuclear-powered submarines and author of U.S. Naval Power in the 21st Century: A New Strategy for Facing the Chinese and Russian Threat, we are convinced that while these alternatives may fill certain gaps, they fall short of meeting the United States’ broader strategic needs. As Captain Sadler pointed out, “only nuclear-powered submarines possess the range, endurance, and strategic capabilities necessary to project power and safeguard the distant maritime choke points critical to both American and Australian interests.” This reality remains just as pertinent today as it was when Australia evaluated its own submarine needs decades ago.
The U.S. Navy’s dependence on nuclear-powered submarines stems not just from their superior endurance but from their ability to maintain forward presence in vital regions like the Indo-Pacific, where distances and operational demands far exceed the capabilities of diesel-electric subs. While unmanned systems like the Manta Ray and smaller ISR variants may enhance the fleet’s flexibility, they cannot replace the strategic depth provided by manned, nuclear-powered vessels.
Moreover, the capital infusion from Australia under the AUKUS agreement is a critical step toward increasing the production rates of Virginia-class submarines. Yet, as you astutely noted, even with this funding, workforce and industrial base shortages present formidable hurdles. The U.S. Navy must prioritize workforce development and shipyard modernization to accelerate production timelines and meet both our own force requirements and our commitments to allies like Australia.
At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we believe in advocating for a multifaceted approach—one that includes continued investments in nuclear-powered submarines, increased collaboration with our allies, and targeted support for the U.S. industrial base to reduce delays in production. This will allow us to respond effectively to the twin challenges posed by China and Russia, while also maintaining readiness in other volatile regions like the Middle East.
In conclusion, while unmanned and non-nuclear options can and should play a role in the future of undersea warfare, nuclear submarines remain the backbone of our strategy. We must remain steadfast in building and maintaining a fleet capable of meeting the global challenges of the 21st century.
Thank you again for your insightful analysis, and I look forward to further discussions on this critical topic.
Sincerely, Bill Cullifer Founder, Americans for a Stronger Navy
Note: I am not a paid spokesperson for any organization. My statements reflect my personal commitment to strengthening the U.S. Navy and advocating on behalf of those who serve.
This week’s U.S. Navy stories cover significant developments in operations, leadership, and strategic partnerships around the globe. From Arctic engagements to major military exercises and critical advancements in defense technologies, the Navy continues to respond to emerging threats and strengthen international alliances.
U.S. Navy Global Engagement and Readiness
U.S. Navy Conducts First Naval Strike Missile Firing from Destroyer A successful demonstration of the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) was conducted by a U.S. destroyer, showcasing advanced capabilities in surface warfare.
US Navy Carrier Group Sends Destroyers to Russia’s Arctic Doorstep On Monday, two U.S. destroyers, USS Jason Dunham and USS Stout, deployed to the Barents Sea, conducting operations near Russia’s Arctic region as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group.
Indonesia Confronts Chinese Vessel in South China Sea Dispute In escalating tensions, Indonesia has sent a Chinese vessel packing during an oil and gas dispute, further intensifying conflicts in the South China Sea.
USS Texas: The Homeless Battleship After extensive restoration, the historic USS Texas, the only surviving battleship from both World Wars, remains without a permanent berth, as cost concerns halted plans for its new home.
Congress Eyes Top Honor for Navy POW Cmdr. Everett Alvarez Jr. The second-longest held POW in U.S. military history, Cmdr. Everett Alvarez Jr., may soon receive Congress’ highest honor. A decorated Vietnam veteran, Alvarez was a prisoner for over eight years.
US Navy’s Oldest Amphibious Assault Ship to Undergo Repairs Until 2026 The Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Wasp will be out of service until 2026 for critical repairs, marking a significant maintenance operation for the aging vessel.
Austal USA Breaks Ground on Submarine Module Manufacturing Facility Construction has begun on Austal USA’s new submarine module manufacturing facility, significantly boosting the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Industrial Base.
U.S. Submarine Earns Presidential Unit Citation The USS Washington, a Virginia-class fast-attack submarine, was awarded the prestigious Presidential Unit Citation for its intelligence-gathering operations during a deployment to Europe.
Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group Conducts Joint Operations with Italian Navy The U.S. Navy’s Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and Italy’s ITS Cavour Carrier Strike Group recently completed joint operations, enhancing interoperability in the Mediterranean.
GD CEO Confirms Submarine Production Delays General Dynamics CEO announced delays in the production of Columbia-class and Virginia-class submarines due to component shortages, affecting the Navy’s fleet expansion timeline.
Operations and Exercises
Exercise Iron
Defender: U.S., UAE Forces Begin Maritime Training in the Arabian Gulf U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard forces, along with the UAE naval defense force, kicked off Exercise Iron Defender 24, focusing on security and interoperability in the region.
NMRTC Twentynine Palms Prepares for Japan’s Keen Sword Exercise Sailors from Twentynine Palms prepare for the upcoming Keen Sword exercise, one of the largest bilateral military exercises between the U.S. and Japan.
Leadership and Recognition
Chief of Naval Operations Receives Leonardo Da Vinci Award Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Chief of Naval Operations, was awarded the Leonardo Da Vinci Award in Military Service from the National Italian American Foundation for her outstanding service.
U.S. Navy Ousts Top Commanders at Japan Ship Repair Facility Both the commanding officer and executive officer of the U.S. Naval Ship Repair Facility in Japan were removed due to a “loss of confidence in their ability to command.”
Chief of Naval Operations Honors Trailblazing Aviators Two Navy aviators, Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay “Miley” Evans and Lt. Serena “Dug” Wileman, were remembered for their service after tragically losing their lives during a routine training flight.
Shipbuilding and Industry
U.S. Navy Battleship USS Texas Faces Uncertain Future Despite its extensive restoration, the historic USS Texas remains without a permanent home, highlighting the challenges in preserving naval history.
Carderock Hosts Small Business Industry Day Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division hosted its annual Industry Day, fostering collaboration between the Navy and private industry to support innovation in naval technology.
New Facility to Boost U.S. Navy Submarine Production Capacity Austal USA’s new submarine module manufacturing facility, set to be operational by 2026, will bolster the Navy’s shipbuilding efforts and industrial capacity.
Security and Deterrence
Typhoon-Class Submarine Decommissioned Russia officially decommissioned the last Typhoon-class submarine, marking the end of an era for the largest submarines ever built.
US Navy Battleship USS Texas Is Now ‘Homeless’ The USS Texas continues to face challenges in securing a permanent home despite its historic significance.
China Watch
The Next-Gen U.S. Navy Destroyer f Targeting China’s Naval Expansion The DDG(X) program, aimed at replacing aging destroyers, is expected to significantly enhance the U.S. Navy’s ability to counter China’s growing naval power.
Russia Watch:
US Navy Carrier Group Moves into Barents Sea Near Russia
Two American destroyers, as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group, entered the Barents Sea, sending a clear signal to Russia amid growing tensions in the Arctic.
Iran WatchU.S. Submarine Honored for Spying on Iran’s Operations
A U.S. Navy submarine was awarded for its intelligence-gathering efforts during operations near Iran, highlighting the Navy’s role in monitoring adversaries.
Conclusion:
This week’s news highlights the Navy’s ongoing efforts to maintain global partnerships, enhance readiness, and honor its personnel. With joint exercises, leadership changes, and continued technological innovation, the U.S. Navy remains at the forefront of ensuring maritime security and operational excellence.
As we celebrate another year of the Navy’s proud legacy, I want to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable men and women who serve this great nation, especially those away from home and in harm’s way. Your unwavering commitment and sacrifice allow us to enjoy the freedoms we hold dear.
To all our sailors—past and present—who have stood watch on the seas, I want to say thank you. We owe you a debt of gratitude that words can scarcely express. On this day, our hearts go out to the families who stand behind you, providing strength while you are far from home.
Today, as we honor this incredible milestone in U.S. Navy history, let us remember that the Navy’s strength is not just in its ships and technology but in the spirit, dedication, and resilience of those who serve. You embody the very essence of service, sacrifice, and duty.
Know that we stand with you, not just today but every day. Happy birthday to our U.S. Navy, and may you continue to navigate the seas, safeguarding peace and freedom.
With respect and admiration, Bill Cullifer Founder, Americans for a Stronger Navy
Sailors on USS Chosin (CG-65) load a Mk.41 cell during an underway replenishment demonstration of the Transferrable Rearming Mechanism. Photo from Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro.
Ensuring Naval Readiness in the 21st Century: A Call to Action From Americans for a Stronger Navy
In today’s rapidly changing world, America’s naval forces face unprecedented challenges. Global powers are racing to modernize their fleets and develop advanced weapons systems, while the U.S. Navy must continue to uphold its long-standing mission: to defend freedom of the seas and protect American interests around the globe.
As supporters of a strong and capable Navy, we at Americans for a Stronger Navy understand that maintaining naval superiority requires not only cutting-edge technology but also the operational readiness of our fleet. One critical area that has seen major advancements is how our warships sustain themselves in combat.
The Importance of Staying in the Fight
For decades, the need to leave the battle zone to resupply or rearm has created a tactical challenge for the U.S. Navy. Every moment a ship spends away from the fight is a moment when our forces are vulnerable, and our operational effectiveness is compromised. As the former Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Arleigh Burke, once said, “All time spent in replenishing was time lost in combat.”
That sentiment rings true today. The pace of modern warfare has only accelerated, and our Navy must keep pace. In the event of a conflict, especially with global adversaries like China, there may be little time to spare. That’s why rearming and resupplying at sea is no longer just an operational convenience—it’s a strategic necessity.
A Breakthrough in Naval Replenishment: TRAM
Enter the Transferrable Rearming Mechanism (TRAM)—a revolutionary new technology that allows ships to reload their vertical launch systems (VLS) at sea. This innovation, which was recently tested aboard the USS Chosin (CG 65), could dramatically enhance the Navy’s ability to sustain long-range combat operations.
“This is a long-sought breakthrough by our Navy that will be an enormous boost to our ability to endure and conduct successive strikes on the battlefield.” – Captain Dave Lennon, USNR (Ret).
Developed by the engineers at Naval Surface Warfare Center in Port Hueneme, California, TRAM enables cruisers, destroyers, and eventually frigates to resupply their missile systems without leaving the theater of operations. This capability allows our warfighters to stay in the fight longer, delivering sustained firepower where and when it’s needed most.
Why This Matters for America’s Future
In a potential conflict, the ability to rapidly resupply and rearm could be a game-changer. Studies have shown that in a high-intensity conflict with a near-peer adversary, the Navy could expend thousands of missiles in a matter of weeks. Traditionally, U.S. warships would need to sail back to a friendly port—potentially hundreds of miles away—to reload, costing valuable time.
TRAM changes that. By allowing the U.S. Navy to resupply its warships while still at sea, we not only save time but also maintain the operational tempo necessary to overwhelm our adversaries. This kind of forward-thinking innovation is precisely what will ensure that our Navy remains the world’s dominant maritime force.
Our Commitment to a Stronger Navy
At Americans for a Stronger Navy, we believe that our country’s naval strength is foundational to our security. Innovations like TRAM represent the future of naval warfare, but they are just one piece of the larger puzzle. Continued investment in technology, training, and shipbuilding is essential to maintaining our edge in an increasingly competitive global arena.
We encourage all Americans to stay informed about the challenges facing our Navy and the solutions that are being developed to meet those challenges. It is through understanding and advocacy that we can ensure our Navy remains ready to protect and defend—both today and in the years to come.
Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll dive deeper into the technical aspects of TRAM and how it promises to revolutionize naval operations.
Welcome to this week’s Americans for a Stronger Navy, U.S. Naval News Wednesday, where we provide a comprehensive overview of key events and updates from across the fleet. In this edition, we cover major exercises, deployments, and ship movements, as well as technological advancements and diplomatic developments. The U.S. Navy continues to reinforce its commitment to global security and operational readiness.
Operational HighlightsSama Sama 2024 Exercise Begins U.S. and Philippine navies, along with regional partners, have launched the eighth iteration of Exercise Sama Sama, enhancing maritime cooperation and regional security.
Destroyers Depart Mayport Ahead of Hurricane Milton Three U.S. Navy destroyers have departed Naval Station Mayport to avoid Hurricane Milton, demonstrating operational flexibility in the face of natural threats.
USS Daniel Inouye Returns from Maiden Deployment The USS Daniel Inouye (DDG 118) completed its historic maiden deployment and returned to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.
USS Wasp Arrives in Cyprus for Mid-Deployment Repairs After six months at sea, the USS Wasp (LHD 1) docked in Limassol, Cyprus, for scheduled repairs, ensuring continued readiness.
Technological and Strategic Developments
High-Tech Submarine Recruitment via Reddit The U.S. Navy has embraced innovative recruitment methods by launching a scavenger hunt on Reddit, targeting tech-savvy individuals to join the next generation of submariners.
Cyber Resiliency Efforts Reinforced In recognition of Cyber Security Awareness Month, the Navy is emphasizing efforts to strengthen its cyber defenses, with a focus on resilience against external threats.
San Francisco Fleet Week 2024 USS Tripoli, USS Somerset, and the unmanned surface vessel Ranger arrived in San Francisco, participating in the highly anticipated Fleet Week 2024.
China and Russia Watch
Increased Chinese Naval Activity Near Senkaku Islands China has stepped up its naval activity near the disputed Senkaku Islands, raising tensions with Japan. The U.S. continues to monitor developments closely.
Russian Submarine Drills in the Arctic Russia has conducted large-scale drills in the Arctic involving nuclear submarines. The U.S. Navy remains vigilant in response to this heightened activity.
Community and Leadership News
Change of Command on USS Ronald Reagan USS Ronald Reagan saw a change in leadership, with Capt. Dale Gregory assuming command, underscoring the Navy’s ongoing leadership transitions across the fleet.
Meeting with Nigerian Naval Leadership Adm. Lisa Franchetti met with Nigerian Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla to discuss maritime cooperation and security, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea.
USS John S. McCain Hosts Memorial Service for Fallen Sailors The USS John S. McCain honored the sailors lost during its 2017 collision with a memorial service in Yokosuka, Japan.
Shipbuilding and Infrastructure News
Faulty Welds Affecting 26 Navy Ships A report revealed that 26 U.S. Navy ships, including three in active service, were impacted by faulty welds at Newport News Shipbuilding.
Final Littoral Combat Ship Launched Austal USA launched the final Littoral Combat Ship, USS Pierre (LCS-38), marking the completion of this shipbuilding program.
Personnel and Training News
STEM Day at U.S. Naval Academy The U.S. Naval Academy hosted STEM Day, engaging high school students in activities designed to inspire future naval officers and highlight the importance of science and technology.
EA-18G Growler Tested in Alaska The U.S. Navy’s Electronic Attack Squadron 135 participated in the Red Flag-Alaska 24-3 exercise, honing electronic warfare capabilities.
Submarine and Aviation Watch
USS Florida Returns from 727-Day Deployment The USS Florida (SSGN 728), an Ohio-class guided-missile submarine, completed an unprecedented 727-day deployment.
Aegis Combat System Tested on USS Shiloh The USS Shiloh (CG-67) successfully tested the latest Aegis Combat System, bolstering its missile defense capabilities.
Historical and Special Reports
WWII Ghost Ship Found Near San Francisco Researchers have located the wreck of the USS Stewart, a destroyer captured by Japan during WWII, off the coast of San Francisco.
Vietnam War Navy Pilot to Be Buried in Georgia Lt. Cmdr. Larry R. Kilpatrick, killed during the Vietnam War, will be laid to rest in Georgia after his remains were recently identified.
Conclusion
The U.S. Navy continues to demonstrate its strength and adaptability in the face of both operational and strategic challenges. Whether through global maritime exercises, technological advancements, or honoring past service members, the Navy remains committed to securing the seas. Stay tuned for more updates in next week’s edition of U.S. Naval News Wednesday!
The Pentagon announced today that two U.S. Navy destroyers, the USS Bulkeley and USS Cole, fired around a dozen interceptors to neutralize Iranian missiles aimed at Israel, marking a decisive moment in the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict. This incident, the second time in six months that U.S. forces have intervened to protect Israel, highlights the Navy’s readiness and vital role in defending American allies against emerging threats.
Pentagon spokesperson Major General Patrick Ryder confirmed that the interceptors successfully engaged the missiles, all launched from within Iran. “No other U.S. military assets were used in this operation,” said Ryder, emphasizing the Navy’s capability to respond independently to high-stakes situations. The Iranian missile strike was part of a broader retaliatory attack, with over 180 missiles launched toward Israel. While Israeli air defense also intercepted a significant number of missiles, the collaboration between the U.S. and Israeli forces proved crucial in mitigating the threat.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan emphasized the coordinated effort, stating, “U.S. naval destroyers joined Israeli air-defense units in firing interceptors to shoot down inbound missiles.” He confirmed that there were no reports of damage to Israeli aircraft or strategic military assets, indicating the attack had been effectively defeated.
A Demonstration of Global Security and Strategic Alliances
This interception by U.S. Navy destroyers underscores the essential role the Navy plays in maintaining security and stability in regions where threats to American allies are most pronounced. As tensions escalate in the Middle East, the Navy’s ability to rapidly and effectively respond to such threats reaffirms its position as a critical element of U.S. foreign policy and defense strategy.
Iran’s aggressive missile launch followed the assassination of key leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah, indicating a potential escalation in regional conflict. This act of retaliation serves as a reminder of the volatility in the area and the importance of a capable and ready U.S. Navy to respond decisively.
The Navy’s Readiness and Technological Prowess
The successful interception demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s advanced technological capabilities and the rigorous training that ensures its forces can respond to threats worldwide. By intercepting missiles launched directly from Iran, the Navy showcased its ability to operate in real-time under challenging conditions, protecting not only an allied nation but also preserving stability in a critical geopolitical region.
This incident also reinforces the importance of maintaining a strong naval presence in the Middle East and around the world. It highlights why the U.S. must continue investing in advanced naval systems and technology to ensure that American forces remain ready to face emerging threats wherever they may arise.
Why This Matters
In an age where missile threats can emerge from any corner of the globe, the U.S. Navy’s actions today stand as a testament to the country’s commitment to defending its allies and maintaining international order. The interception of Iranian missiles by U.S. Navy destroyers was not just an isolated defensive act; it was a powerful demonstration of American strength, readiness, and the vital role that naval forces play in safeguarding democracy and stability worldwide.
A Call to Recognize and Support Our Navy
As Americans, we must recognize the essential role that the U.S. Navy plays in maintaining global security. Today’s actions remind us of the importance of having a well-funded, well-equipped Navy ready to respond at a moment’s notice. The dedication and bravery of our sailors reflect the best of American values and serve as a reminder that we all have a role to play in supporting our Navy.
The mission of Americans for a Stronger Navy has never been more relevant. We urge all citizens to appreciate the Navy’s role in defending freedom and to support efforts to ensure it remains the world’s most capable and ready maritime force.
