About this Unit
USS Columbus (CG-12) was a Baltimore-class heavy cruiser of the United States Navy, originally commissioned as CA-74 in 1945. After serving in the post-World War II era, she was extensively modernized and converted to a guided missile cruiser, re-designated CG-12 in 1959. USS Columbus served as a flagship and participated in various Cold War operations, including NATO exercises and Mediterranean deployments. She was decommissioned in 1975 after nearly three decades of service.
Historical Facts
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Originally a Heavy Cruiser: USS Columbus (CG-12) was originally commissioned as CA-74, a Baltimore-class heavy cruiser, in 1945, serving in the final months of World War II.
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Converted to a Guided Missile Cruiser: In 1959, Columbus underwent an extensive conversion and was re-designated CG-12, making her one of the early guided missile cruisers in the US Navy.
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Talos Missile System: During her conversion, she was equipped with the RIM-8 Talos long-range surface-to-air missile system, significantly enhancing her air defense capabilities.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: USS Columbus played a role in the naval "quarantine" (blockade) of Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, helping to enforce U.S. policy during this tense period.
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Service in the Mediterranean: Columbus was a frequent participant in Sixth Fleet operations in the Mediterranean Sea, serving as a flagship at times and projecting American naval power during the Cold War.
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Proud Homeport of Norfolk: The ship was homeported in Norfolk, Virginia, a major hub for the Atlantic Fleet and a key location for operational deployments.
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Vietnam War Service: Columbus supported U.S. operations during the Vietnam War, providing naval gunfire support and missile defense for aircraft carriers operating off the Vietnamese coast.
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Decommissioned in 1975: After nearly 30 years of service, USS Columbus was decommissioned on January 31, 1975, as newer missile cruisers replaced her.
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Namesake Heritage: She was the second ship named after Christopher Columbus, continuing a long-standing tradition in the U.S. Navy to honor the explorer.
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Legacy and Preservation: Although the ship was scrapped in 1977, parts of her legacy live on in naval history, and her ship’s bell and artifacts can be found in museums and at veterans’ reunions.
