CG-54

• USS Antietam (CG-54): This vessel is a Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser of the United States Navy, named after the Battle of Antietam from the American Civil War. • Commissioning: USS Antietam was commissioned on 6 June 1987, making her one of the later ships in the Ticonderoga class. • Homeport: The ship has been homeported at both San Diego, California and Yokosuka, Japan during its service, reflecting the U.S. Navy’s forward-deployed strategy in the Pacific. • First Tomahawk Launch: USS Antietam was among the first cruisers to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles in combat during Operation Desert Storm in 1991. • Integrated Aegis System: The cruiser is equipped with the Aegis Combat System, a highly advanced radar and missile guidance system, making it a key air-defense asset. • Grounding Incident (2017): In January 2017, USS Antietam ran aground in Tokyo Bay, resulting in a major fuel spill and significant hull damage, requiring extensive repairs. • Women at Sea: USS Antietam was one of the early ships in the Navy to integrate female sailors into its crew, reflecting policy changes in the 1990s. • Humanitarian Missions: The ship has participated in several humanitarian missions and disaster relief operations, including support after the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan. • Carrier Strike Group: USS Antietam often operates as part of a Carrier Strike Group, providing air defense and surface warfare capabilities to protect aircraft carriers. • Namesake Legacy: The ship’s motto, "Determined, Dedicated, Disciplined," honors the legacy of those who fought at the Battle of Antietam, one of the bloodiest days in American military history.