About this Unit
USS Cushing (DD-985) was a Spruance-class destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in 1978. Named after Commander William B. Cushing, a Civil War naval hero, Cushing served extensively in the Pacific Fleet during the Cold War and post-Cold War periods. The ship participated in numerous multinational exercises, including RIMPAC, and supported operations such as Desert Storm. After over two decades of service, USS Cushing was decommissioned in 2005 and later sunk as a target during a training exercise.
Historical Facts
• Spruance-class Destroyer: USS Cushing (DD-985) was a Spruance-class destroyer, commissioned on September 21, 1979, and named after Commander William B. Cushing, a celebrated US Navy hero of the Civil War.
• Gulf War Service: Cushing participated in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm in 1990-1991, providing escort and anti-aircraft support in the Persian Gulf.
• Tomahawk Missile Launch: During Desert Storm, Cushing was among the first ships to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles against Iraqi targets.
• Homeport in Yokosuka: In 1994, Cushing shifted her homeport to Yokosuka, Japan, becoming one of the few US destroyers permanently forward-deployed in the Pacific.
• Anti-Submarine Specialization: Cushing was equipped with advanced sonar and ASW (Anti-Submarine Warfare) systems and often served as the flagship of Destroyer Squadron 15 for ASW operations.
• Multinational Exercises: The ship took part in numerous multinational naval exercises, including RIMPAC and Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT), strengthening alliances in the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
• Rescue Operations: In 1997, Cushing aided in the rescue of a merchant vessel in distress in the South China Sea, showcasing the Navy’s humanitarian role.
• Decommissioning and Sinking: The ship was decommissioned on September 21, 2005, and later sunk as a target during a SINKEX (Sink Exercise) in July 2008, providing valuable training for live-fire testing.
• Advanced Technology: Cushing was among the first destroyers to be fitted with the Vertical Launching System (VLS), greatly increasing her missile firepower and flexibility.
• Ship’s Crest Symbolism: The ship’s crest incorporated a torch and a Civil War-era torpedo boat, referencing her namesake’s daring raid to sink the CSS Albemarle in 1864.
