Tag: US Naval News

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U.S. Navy Destroyers Fire Interceptors Against Iranian Missiles, Demonstrating American Commitment to Global Security and Strategic Alliances

USS Cole
Bill Cullifer, Founder
Bill Cullifer, Founder

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.

Please support the Navy and the Americans for Stronger Navy by following us on Facebook or by completing the contact us page by clicking here.

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U.S. Naval News Weekly Roundup: September 11–18, 2024

TIMOR SEA (Sept. 16, 2024) – Navy ships from participating nations in Exercise Kakadu 2024 sail in formation in the Timor Sea, Sept. 16, 2024. Exercise Kakadu is the Royal Australian Navy’s premier exercise and provides an opportunity for regional nations to participate in multinational maritime activities, from humanitarian assistance and search and rescue operations to high-end maritime warfare scenarios.

Introduction:

This week’s U.S. Navy news captures a dynamic mix of deployments, international collaborations, and cutting-edge technological advancements. From the expansion of the historic Subic Bay Naval Base to key exercises in the Indo-Pacific, the Navy continues to project power and enhance partnerships. Meanwhile, internal developments such as updated safety protocols at shipyards and new retention strategies for naval aviators highlight the Navy’s commitment to readiness and personnel well-being.

U.S. Navy Global Engagement and Readiness

USS Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln Deployed in Gulf of Oman
The USS Theodore Roosevelt and USS Abraham Lincoln have both entered the Gulf of Oman, enhancing U.S. naval presence in a strategically critical area. The deployment is part of a broader effort to maintain freedom of navigation and ensure stability in the region, particularly with heightened tensions in the Middle East.

USS Benfold Hosts Finland’s Defense Minister
The USS Benfold hosted Finland’s Defense Minister during a port visit, strengthening ties between the U.S. and its new NATO ally. Discussions focused on maritime security in the Baltic Sea, emphasizing Finland’s growing role in the alliance.

New Safety Measures at Norfolk Naval Shipyard
Norfolk Naval Shipyard has installed new evacuation signage and introduced black flags to notify workers of heat stress risks. These changes are part of the shipyard’s ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of personnel in the event of emergencies, whether from environmental hazards or operational risks.

Operations and Exercises

Exercise Kakadu 2024 Kicks Off in Australia
Exercise Kakadu 2024 has begun in Australia, bringing together naval forces from 10 countries, including the U.S., to conduct joint maritime operations. The exercise aims to enhance cooperation and readiness in the Indo-Pacific, a region of increasing strategic importance.

Pacific Partnership 2024 Continues in Micronesia
The U.S. Navy-led Pacific Partnership 2024 continues in Micronesia, focusing on humanitarian aid, medical assistance, and disaster relief. This annual mission underscores the Navy’s commitment to strengthening relationships with Pacific island nations and improving regional disaster preparedness.

Navy Will Require Aviators to Complete Sea Tours
In a move aimed at boosting operational readiness, the Navy has announced that aviators will be required to complete their second sea tours before leaving service. This policy change addresses personnel shortages in key aviation billets and is expected to reduce turnover and ensure continuity at sea.

Innovation and Technology

U.S. Navy Commissions First Fully Integrated Submarine
In a historic milestone, the U.S. Navy commissioned its first fully integrated submarine with both male and female crew members. The USS New Jersey, a Virginia-class attack submarine, represents a significant step forward for gender integration in the Navy, marking a new era of inclusivity in submarine warfare.

International Partnerships

Argentina Joins Combined Maritime Forces
Argentina has officially joined the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), a multinational naval partnership aimed at securing international waters from piracy and terrorism. This move strengthens Argentina’s role in global maritime security and enhances the operational reach of the CMF in key shipping lanes.

Industry Leaders Collaborate at MEDEC Council
The U.S. Navy hosted the Maritime Economic Deterrence Executive Council (MEDEC) to discuss challenges and opportunities in protecting maritime economic activities from adversarial threats. The collaboration between industry leaders and Navy officials aims to safeguard critical technologies and supply chains.

U.S. Navy Expands Subic Bay Naval Base in the Philippines
The U.S. Navy is underwriting the expansion of the historic Subic Bay Naval Base in the Philippines, financing the construction of a new finger pier to support Philippine Navy operations. This investment underscores the strategic importance of Subic Bay, located just 300 miles from the contested Spratly Islands, in maintaining a forward U.S. naval presence in the South China Sea.

Security and Deterrence

USS Georgia Arrives in the Middle East
The USS Georgia, a guided-missile submarine, has arrived in the Middle East to bolster U.S. naval capabilities in the region. Armed with Tomahawk cruise missiles, the submarine’s presence sends a strong message of deterrence amid escalating tensions with Iran and ongoing maritime threats.

China Watch

Chinese Warplanes Tail U.S. Navy Plane Through Taiwan Strait
Chinese military aircraft tailed a U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon as it transited the Taiwan Strait, heightening tensions in the region. The U.S. maintains that such operations are in accordance with international law, while China claims sovereignty over the strait and views these transits as provocations.

Russia Watch

Russia Conducts Naval Exercises in the Arctic
Russia has conducted a series of naval exercises in the Arctic, highlighting its ambitions in the resource-rich region. As the Arctic becomes a new frontier for military and economic competition, these drills underscore Russia’s intent to project power in the high north.

Iran Watch

Tensions Rise With Iran After USS Georgia Deployment
Following the deployment of the USS Georgia in the Middle East, Iran has issued warnings against U.S. military actions in the region. The deployment, coupled with ongoing Houthi attacks on shipping lanes, has further strained relations, with the U.S. Navy continuing to protect vital maritime routes in the Red Sea and Gulf of Oman.

Stay tuned for next weeks U.S. Naval News stories Underwritten by the Americans for a Stronger Navy.

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U.S. Navy Carrier Deployments: A Strategic Balancing Act Amid Global Tensions

U.S. Navy aircraft carriers USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, left, USS Harry S. Truman, middle, and USS Gerald R. Ford, right, transit the Atlantic Ocean during an ordnance transfer on
Bill Cullifer, Founder
Bill Cullifer, Founder

As the founder of Americans for a Stronger Navy, I’ve spent the past year and a half advocating for a robust and capable naval force including the need for improving the production of both U.S. Navy and a civilian maritime fleet.

What I want Americans to understand

Today, I find myself concerned about the current state of our carrier fleet. The strategic deployment of our aircraft carriers is not just a matter of logistics; it’s a critical component of our national security and global stability. As we face mounting challenges in multiple theaters, the strain on our naval resources incuding our sailors is becoming increasingly evident.

In this post, I’ll delve into the complexities of our carrier deployments, the implications of our current strategy, and why it’s more important than ever for America to understand and support our Navy. As always, my goal is to provide you with clear, objective insights that cut through the noise and get to the heart of why these issues matter.

As the U.S. Navy grapples with multiple global hotspots, a critical shortfall of aircraft carriers in the Pacific region has emerged, raising concerns about America’s ability to maintain a strong deterrent presence in an increasingly contested Indo-Pacific theater.

Current Carrier Deployments

The recent redeployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) from the 7th Fleet to the 5th Fleet, as well as the extension of USS Theodore Roosevelt’s (CVN 71) deployment in the Middle East, has left the Pacific without a U.S. aircraft carrier for the first time in years. This gap comes at a time when tensions in the South China Sea and around Taiwan continue to simmer, with China’s aggressive actions frequently testing the resolve of the U.S. and its allies in the region.

The shift of the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) from Yokosuka, Japan, to Bremerton, Washington, for maintenance, combined with the ongoing readiness activities of other Pacific-based carriers, underscores the strain on the Navy’s resources. The USS George Washington (CVN 73) is expected to fill the gap, but it will not be fully operational in the region for several weeks.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Navy has had to refocus its carrier strength on the Middle East, where increasing instability has necessitated a robust American presence. The USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Theodore Roosevelt, both now in the Gulf of Oman, are tasked with ensuring the safety of critical shipping lanes and deterring further escalation in the region.

Strategic Challenges and Implications

More than half of the U.S. Navy’s 11 aircraft carriers—the largest fleet in the world—were underway over the weekend, demonstrating the immense pressure the Navy faces in managing multiple global fronts. A recent “multi-carrier formation” transiting the Atlantic Ocean, including the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), and USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), further highlights the operational demands placed on the fleet.

The Eisenhower and Truman are returning from historic deployments in the Middle East, where they engaged in combat operations against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in the Red Sea. These missions saw the carriers’ strike groups launch hundreds of missiles in defense and offensive operations, underlining the critical role carriers play in power projection and regional stability.

The Gerald R. Ford, the Navy’s newest and largest carrier, is currently undergoing readiness activities in the Atlantic, which includes essential certifications and ammunition on-loads as part of the Navy’s optimized fleet response plan. This plan is crucial for maintaining the readiness and capability of the fleet to respond swiftly to global events.

However, the absence of carriers in the Pacific raises strategic concerns, particularly as China continues to assert its influence in the South China Sea and beyond. The recent incident involving a Chinese Coast Guard vessel and a Philippine ship highlights the ongoing risk of conflict in this vital region.

Additionally, the Navy’s ability to respond to potential crises in East Asia may be compromised if the current situation persists. While amphibious assault ships, destroyers, and submarines provide important capabilities, they cannot fully substitute the power projection and flexibility offered by an aircraft carrier. As noted by analysts, the Navy will struggle to find like-for-like substitutes for aircraft carriers, especially in terms of the unique posture and capabilities they afford.

The Way Forward

As the Navy continues to navigate these complex global dynamics, it is essential for policymakers to consider the implications of the current carrier deployment strategy. Balancing the need for presence in the Indo-Pacific with the demands of other theaters will require careful planning and, potentially, increased investment in the fleet to ensure that America’s naval forces remain ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

The coming weeks will be critical as the USS George Washington transitions to its new role in the Pacific. Until then, the Navy must rely on other assets and diplomatic efforts to maintain stability in this strategically vital region.

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U.S. Naval News Wednesday – August 21, 2024

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78),

U.S. Naval News Wednesday – August 21, 2024

Operational Updates

  • USS Gerald R. Ford Completes First Patrol in Mediterranean
    Location: Mediterranean Sea
    The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), the Navy’s newest and most advanced aircraft carrier, has completed its inaugural patrol in the Mediterranean. This marks a significant milestone for the Ford-class carrier, enhancing U.S. naval presence and power projection in the region amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
  • USS Makin Island Transits the Taiwan Strait
    Location: Taiwan Strait
    In a show of force and commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation, the USS Makin Island (LHD-8), an amphibious assault ship, transited the Taiwan Strait. This operation demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s support for regional stability and its readiness to counter any potential threats from China.
  • U.S. Navy Intercepts Smuggling Vessel in the Arabian Sea
    Location: Arabian Sea
    The U.S. Navy intercepted a vessel smuggling weapons in the Arabian Sea, part of ongoing efforts to combat illicit activities in the region. The operation is a reminder of the Navy’s critical role in maintaining maritime security and preventing the flow of illegal arms to destabilizing actors.
  • USS New Mexico Returns to Homeport After Successful Deployment
    Location: Norfolk, Virginia
    The USS New Mexico (SSN-779), a Virginia-class submarine, has returned to its homeport in Norfolk after a successful deployment. The submarine participated in multiple joint exercises, enhancing interoperability with allied navies and reinforcing undersea warfare capabilities.
  • USS Oscar Austin Homeport Shifting to Rota, Spain
    Location: Rota, Spain
    The USS Oscar Austin (DDG-79) is set to change its homeport from Norfolk, Virginia, to Rota, Spain, in the fall of 2024. This move is part of an initiative to bolster U.S. and NATO maritime presence in Europe, increasing the U.S. Navy’s operational footprint in the region and supporting the One Atlantic concept. This will strengthen the trans-Atlantic link and allow for greater coordination between U.S. and Spanish navies.

Technological and Strategic Developments

  • New Aegis Combat System Tested on USS Shiloh
    Location: Pacific Ocean
    The USS Shiloh (CG-67) successfully tested the latest version of the Aegis Combat System, a significant upgrade enhancing the ship’s missile defense capabilities. This test underscores the Navy’s commitment to maintaining technological superiority and readiness against emerging threats.
  • U.S. Navy Expands Unmanned Surface Vessel Fleet
    Location: San Diego, California
    The Navy has announced the addition of two new unmanned surface vessels (USVs) to its fleet in San Diego. These vessels, part of the Ghost Fleet Overlord program, are designed to operate autonomously and enhance the Navy’s operational flexibility in contested environments.

China Watch

  • Chinese Naval Activity Near the Senkaku Islands
    Location: East China Sea
    Chinese naval forces have increased their activity near the Senkaku Islands, a disputed territory with Japan. This development has raised concerns in the region, with Japan and the U.S. closely monitoring the situation. The increased presence highlights ongoing tensions in the East China Sea and the strategic importance of the area.

Russia Watch

  • Russian Submarines Spotted in Arctic Drills
    Location: Arctic Ocean
    Russia has conducted large-scale naval drills in the Arctic, including the deployment of nuclear submarines. These exercises demonstrate Russia’s focus on the Arctic as a strategic region and its capability to project power in extreme environments. The U.S. Navy continues to monitor these activities closely, given the potential implications for Arctic security.

Community and Leadership News

  • USS John S. McCain Hosts Memorial Service for Fallen Sailors
    Location: Yokosuka, Japan
    The crew of the USS John S. McCain (DDG-56) held a memorial service in Yokosuka to honor the sailors lost during the 2017 collision. The ceremony was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and the enduring strength of the naval community.
  • Navy Welcomes New Chief of Naval Personnel
    Location: Washington, D.C.
    Vice Adm. Rick Cheeseman has officially assumed the role of Chief of Naval Personnel, succeeding Vice Adm. John Nowell. The change in leadership comes at a crucial time as the Navy continues to address challenges related to recruitment, retention, and sailor readiness.
  • U.S. Naval Academy Hosts STEM Day for High School Students
    Location: Annapolis, Maryland
    The U.S. Naval Academy hosted a STEM Day, engaging high school students from across the country in science, technology, engineering, and math activities. The event aimed to inspire the next generation of naval officers and highlight the importance of STEM education in today’s Navy.

Stay tuned for more updates and insights in next week’s edition of U.S. Naval News Wednesday!

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A Stronger Navy for a Secure America: USS Constellation Marks New Era in Naval Power

Americans for a Stronger Navy applauds the recent keel laying of the future USS Constellation (FFG 62)! This momentous occasion signifies a critical step forward in modernizing our nation’s fleet and ensuring American dominance at sea.

Why the Constellation Class Matters

Despite concerns over recent reports of delays due to labor shortages, supply chain issues, and design changes, the keel laying of the future USS Constellation (FFG 62) marks a significant step forward in modernizing our nation’s fleet. The builder, Fincantieri Marinette Marine, remains hopeful of minimizing these challenges and delivering this next-generation frigate on a revised schedule. Americans for a Stronger Navy applauds this momentous occasion!

The USS Constellation is the first ship in a new generation of frigates – the Constellation Class. These agile, multi-mission vessels represent a significant leap forward in naval technology. They are designed to operate effectively in both deep ocean (blue water) and near-shore (littoral) environments, providing a crucial advantage in today’s complex maritime landscape.

Benefits for America

A robust and modern Navy is essential for safeguarding our nation’s interests. Here’s how the Constellation Class strengthens American security:

  • Increased Global Presence: These new frigates will allow the Navy to deploy more “players on the field” – deterring aggression and protecting vital sea lanes for American commerce.
  • Technological Edge: The Constellation Class boasts advanced weaponry and systems, ensuring our Navy remains the most technologically proficient force on the seas.
  • Economic Strength: The construction of these vessels supports American jobs and revitalizes our domestic shipbuilding industry.

Standing with Our Navy

Americans for a Stronger Navy is committed to advocating for a powerful and well-equipped Navy. We urge all Americans to join us in supporting this critical national security asset.

Stay Connected!

  • Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates on the Constellation Class program and other vital naval developments.
  • Share this blog post with your friends and family to raise awareness about the importance of naval power.

Together, we can ensure the United States Navy remains a force for peace, security, and prosperity for generations to come.

 

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Navigating New Waters: The U.S. Navy’s Groundbreaking Deployment of Unmanned Ships and the Future of Naval Warfare

The littoral combat ship Gabrielle Giffords leads a formation with the unmanned surface vessels Ranger and Mariner on Sept. 7, 2023. (MC2 Jesse Monford/U.S. Navy)

Dear Members and Friends,

As advocates for a robust and future-ready U.S. Navy, we constantly seek developments that shape our naval forces. Today, we bring to your attention a significant advancement in naval technology and strategy.

Unprecedented Deployment of Unmanned Ships

In a historic move, the U.S. Navy has completed its first deployment of four unmanned ships – Sea Hunter, Sea Hawk, Mariner, and Ranger. This deployment marks a pivotal moment in naval operations, integrating unmanned technology into the fleet.

The Pacific Voyage

The deployment spanned five months, with these prototypes sailing a combined 46,651 nautical miles and visiting ports in Japan and Australia. A noteworthy aspect was their autonomous mode operation, showcasing advanced technology and strategic capability.

Testing and Integration into Fleet Operations

Under the oversight of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, this deployment aimed to test the integration of unmanned ships with crewed fleet operations. The insights gained from this exercise are crucial in refining operations and sustainment concepts for future deployments.

Command and Control Successes

A significant achievement was the effective command and control of these vessels, operated remotely or autonomously. This aspect of the operation represents a major advancement in naval warfare technology and strategy.

Challenges and Future Developments

Despite successes, integration of the USV into the broader sensor and shooter network remains a challenge. The upcoming Integrated Combat System promises to enhance data sharing and operational efficiency across the fleet.

Featured Coverage and Insights

  • Surface Navy Coverage and eBook Outlook 2024: This segment offers a glimpse into the future of naval operations and technology.
  • Point of View: The New Era of Cloud-Enabled Missions: Insights into how cloud technology is revolutionizing naval missions.
  • Defense News Reports: In-depth coverage by Megan Eckstein, naval warfare reporter at Defense News showcasing the nuances of these developments.

Conclusion

As we witness these remarkable advancements, it’s essential to remember the words of the great naval leader, Admiral Chester Nimitz: “A ship is more than a mere vessel; it embodies the will and intent of those who sail her.” These unmanned ships are not just technological marvels; they represent the innovative spirit and strategic foresight of the U.S. Navy.

We, at Americans for a Stronger Navy, are excited about these developments and remain committed to supporting a strong, technologically advanced, and strategically adept U.S. Navy.

Stay informed, stay engaged, and let’s sail forward to a stronger future!

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The USS LST-325: A World War II Landing Ship Tank with a Remarkable History

USS LST-325

Hello, and thank you for reading our blog post for the Americans for a Stronger Navy.

We are a group of patriotic citizens who support and appreciate the U.S. Navy and its mission to protect our nation and its interests around the world. In this blog post, we want to share with you some facts and trivia about the USS LST-325, a World War II landing ship tank that recently arrived in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

What is the USS LST-325?

The USS LST-325 is a decommissioned tank landing ship of the U.S. Navy, now docked in Evansville, Indiana, as a museum ship. It is the last operational LST of its class, and one of the few remaining World War II ships that participated in the D-Day landings at Normandy. LST stands for Landing Ship, Tank, which means it could carry tanks, vehicles, cargo, and troops directly onto shore without the need for docks or piers. The USS LST-325 was launched on October 27, 1942 at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and commissioned on February 1, 1943 under Lt. Ira Ehrensall, USNR. 

What did the USS LST-325 do during World War II?

The USS LST-325 was a vital part of the Allied amphibious operations in Europe and Africa during World War II. It operated in the North Africa area and participated in the invasions at Gela, Sicily and Salerno, Italy. On June 6, 1944, it was part of the largest armada in history by participating in the Normandy landings at Omaha Beach. It carried 59 vehicles, 30 officers and a total of 396 enlisted men on that first trip. On its first trip back to England from France, it transported 38 casualties back to a friendly port. Over the next nine months, Navy records show it made more than 40 trips across the English Channel, carrying thousands of men and pieces of equipment needed by troops to successfully complete the liberation of Europe. 

The USS LST-325 also served as a hospital ship, returning wounded soldiers back to England from the beaches of Normandy. It was originally known as LST-325 during World War II, USNS LST-325 during its arctic operations in the 1950s, and later L-144 (A/G Syros) while it was in service of the Greek Navy. 

How did the USS LST-325 become a museum ship?

The USS LST-325 was decommissioned in 1946 and stricken from the Naval Vessel Register in 1961. It was transferred to Greece in 1964 and served as RHS Syros (L-144) until 1999. It was sold to a group of U.S. veterans in 2000 who sailed it back to the United States from Crete in a voyage that lasted 13 weeks and covered 6,500 miles. The ship was renamed M/V LST-325 and docked in Mobile, Alabama until 2005 when it moved to its current homeport of Evansville, Indiana. In 2004, it was granted permission by the U.S. Navy to use its original name again as USS LST-325. In 2009, it was listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. 

The USS LST-325 is now a floating museum that offers tours and cruises to visitors who want to learn more about its history and legacy. It also participates in various events and festivals around the country to honor and educate veterans and civilians alike. Each year, it sails for five weeks to give people a chance to see its historical impact nationwide.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed this blog post about the USS LST-325 and learned something new and interesting about this remarkable ship and its role in World War II. We also hope you feel inspired and motivated to support our Navy and its efforts to protect our nation and our allies. We thank you for reading this blog post and for following #AmericansforaStrongerNavy. Please leave your comments below or contact us if you have any questions or feedback. Stay safe and stay Navy!

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USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124): Embodying American Strength and the Pursuit of Peace

101123-N-5292M-186 NORFOLK The newly commissioned guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) arrives in its new homeport of Naval Station Norfolk Nov. 23, 2010. The ship is named for Marine Cpl. Jason Dunham, who selflessly sacrificed his life at eh age of 22 in Iraq, April 14, 2004. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Julie R. Matyascik) (Released).

Dear members and subscribers of Americans for a Stronger Navy,

We are excited to share with you an event that highlights not just the steadfast progress of our naval forces, but also the values and heroism that permeate the proud history of our organization and our country.

On July 29th, the U.S. Navy is set to christen the future USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), a state-of-the-art guided-missile destroyer, at the General Dynamics Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. This momentous event embodies the continued evolution and modernization of our naval capabilities, ensuring our country remains secure and well-protected against potential threats.

In the context of our mission at Americans for a Stronger Navy, events like this further amplify the significance of our work. Our commitment to ensuring a robust, well-equipped Navy is vindicated as we see the christening of such advanced warships. We believe that a stronger navy is vital for maintaining America’s position in the global arena, defending our interests, and securing our nation’s prosperity.

Why does this matter to America and the American people, you may ask? In a world increasingly defined by geopolitical tensions and unpredictable threats, a strong navy serves as a bulwark against such challenges. With the commissioning of USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), we honor not just a war hero, but also the values of bravery, leadership, and sacrifice that he symbolized. These are values that unite us as Americans and remind us of the cost of our security and freedom.

The USS Harvey C. Barnum Jr. is more than a guided-missile destroyer – it represents the backbone of our surface fleet, prepared to ensure American safety at all times. It embodies our dedication to the defense of our country and our determination to promote peace.

This event serves as a proud reminder of our mission, and we invite you to join us in celebrating this historic occasion. Together, let’s continue working to strengthen our Navy, uphold our shared values, and safeguard the American dream for future generations.

Best Regards,
Bill, Americans for a Stronger Navy