USS Flying Fish (SSN-673)

• Unique Namesake: USS Flying Fish (SSN-673) is the third U.S. Navy ship named after the flying fish, a species known for its ability to leap out of the water and glide above the surface. • Sturgeon-class Submarine: She was part of the Sturgeon-class, a series of fast attack nuclear-powered submarines designed during the Cold War for anti-submarine warfare and intelligence missions. • Commissioning: USS Flying Fish was commissioned on April 1, 1970, at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. • Cold War Service: Throughout her career, the submarine conducted numerous covert operations and surveillance patrols in the Atlantic Ocean, often shadowing Soviet submarines and vessels. • Arctic Operations: In 1977, the Flying Fish became one of the first submarines to surface at the North Pole, demonstrating the U.S. Navy's ability to operate under and through Arctic ice. • Overhaul and Upgrades: The submarine underwent a major overhaul from 1982 to 1984, receiving modern equipment and weapons systems to keep her at the forefront of submarine technology. • Rescue Mission: In 1981, Flying Fish played a key role in rescuing the crew of a disabled U.S. submarine during exercises in the North Atlantic, showcasing her crew’s expertise and readiness. • Humanitarian Efforts: During her service, the submarine occasionally participated in community outreach and humanitarian efforts during port visits, strengthening ties with allied nations. • Decommissioning: USS Flying Fish was decommissioned and stricken from the Naval Vessel Register on May 16, 1996, after 26 years of distinguished service. • Legacy: Parts of the submarine, such as her sail and rudder, are preserved and displayed at the Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Connecticut, as a tribute to her history.