About this Unit
USS Decatur (DDG 73) is an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy on August 29, 1998. Named after Commodore Stephen Decatur, the ship has participated in numerous deployments, supporting operations such as Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. USS Decatur has conducted a variety of missions, including ballistic missile defense, anti-piracy patrols, and freedom of navigation operations in the Pacific and Middle East. The ship has received multiple awards for excellence and remains an active unit in the U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Historical Facts
•
Namesake: USS Decatur (DDG 73) is named after Commodore Stephen Decatur, a renowned early 19th-century U.S. naval hero known for his daring exploits in the Barbary Wars and the War of 1812.
•
Fourth Ship: She is the fourth U.S. Navy ship to bear the name "Decatur," honoring a long tradition of vessels named for the famous naval officer.
•
Class: Decatur is an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer, equipped with the Aegis Combat System, making her a key asset in air, surface, and subsurface warfare.
•
Commissioning: USS Decatur was commissioned on August 29, 1998, at Naval Station San Diego, California.
•
First Deployment: Her maiden deployment took place in 2000 as part of the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Carrier Strike Group, operating in the Western Pacific and Persian Gulf.
•
Operation Iraqi Freedom: Decatur participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003, providing critical support and launching Tomahawk cruise missiles during the initial stages of the conflict.
•
Counter-piracy Operations: The ship has taken part in anti-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia, contributing to international efforts to secure maritime routes.
•
Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs): USS Decatur has conducted several FONOPs in the South China Sea, notably sailing near disputed islands to assert international navigation rights in 2016 and 2018.
•
Technological Upgrades: Over her service life, Decatur has received numerous upgrades, including the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense system, enhancing her missile defense capabilities.
•
Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat roles, Decatur has participated in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, showcasing the versatility of modern naval destroyers.
