About this Unit
USS Essex (LHD-2) is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship commissioned into the United States Navy on October 17, 1992. Throughout its service, the Essex has played a key role in numerous military operations, including supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003 by deploying Marines and equipment to the Persian Gulf. The ship has also participated in humanitarian missions, such as disaster relief efforts following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 2013 Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. Homeported in San Diego, California, USS Essex continues to serve as a vital component of the U.S. Navy’s amphibious readiness and rapid response capabilities in the Pacific and beyond.
Historical Facts
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Second Ship Named Essex: USS Essex (LHD-2) is the fifth U.S. Navy ship and the second amphibious assault ship to bear the name, continuing a naval legacy dating back to the original USS Essex of the War of 1812.
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Wasp-Class Flagship: Essex is the second ship in the Wasp-class of amphibious assault ships, designed to embark, deploy, and land elements of a Marine landing force in an assault by helicopters, landing craft, and amphibious vehicles.
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Commissioned in 1992: The ship was commissioned on October 17, 1992, at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego, California.
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Operation Iraqi Freedom: In 2003, Essex participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom, serving as the flagship for Expeditionary Strike Group One and providing critical support for combat operations.
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Tsunami Relief Mission: In 2004, Essex was deployed to Southeast Asia as part of Operation Unified Assistance, delivering humanitarian relief supplies and aid after the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami.
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First Female Commanding Officer: In 2012, Captain Julia L. Slattery became the first woman to command the USS Essex, marking a significant milestone for women in the U.S. Navy.
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Global Presence: Essex has operated in every major ocean, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, as well as the Arabian Gulf, regularly participating in multinational exercises and operations.
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Flight Deck Operations: The ship can accommodate various aircraft, including AV-8B Harrier II, MV-22 Osprey, CH-53E Super Stallion, and AH-1Z Viper, enabling versatile combat and humanitarian missions.
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COVID-19 Response: In 2020, sailors aboard Essex implemented strict protocols to prevent the spread of COVID-19, showcasing adaptability and resilience in the face of a global pandemic.
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“Iron Gator” Nickname: The crew and Marines refer to the Essex as the “Iron Gator,” symbolizing its strength and amphibious capabilities in military and humanitarian operations.
