About this Unit
USS *Galveston* (CLG-3) was a Cleveland-class light cruiser originally commissioned during World War II, but later converted to a guided missile cruiser and recommissioned in 1958. As a part of the U.S. Navy's modernization program, she was equipped with the Talos surface-to-air missile system, enhancing her air defense capabilities during the Cold War. *Galveston* served primarily in the Atlantic and Pacific fleets, participating in operations such as patrols, training exercises, and showing the flag missions. She was decommissioned in 1970, marking the end of her distinguished service as one of the early missile-armed cruisers in the U.S. Navy.
Historical Facts
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Originally a Cleveland-class Light Cruiser: USS Galveston started her life as CL-93, a Cleveland-class light cruiser laid down during World War II, but was not completed before the war ended.
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Converted to Guided Missile Cruiser: After being laid up for years, she was converted to a Galveston-class guided missile cruiser, re-designated CLG-3, with the primary armament being the Talos missile system.
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Commissioned in 1958: USS Galveston was commissioned on May 28, 1958, after her conversion and modernization at Philadelphia Naval Shipyard.
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First TALOS Launch: She was among the first US Navy ships to fire the RIM-8 Talos long-range surface-to-air missile, showing the transition to missile warfare.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: USS Galveston participated in the Cuban Missile Crisis quarantine operations in October 1962, helping enforce the naval blockade of Cuba.
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Vietnam War Service: The ship served off the coast of Vietnam, providing naval gunfire support, launching missiles, and conducting search and rescue operations for downed pilots.
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Flagship Duties: She served as flagship for various task groups, including the Commander, Cruiser-Destroyer Flotilla Seven, demonstrating her importance in fleet operations.
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Modernization Features: During her conversion, she received an advanced Combat Information Center (CIC) and enhanced radar and communications, making her a cutting-edge warship for her time.
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Decommissioning: USS Galveston was decommissioned on May 25, 1970, after nearly 12 years of active service as a guided missile cruiser.
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Final Fate: After decommissioning, she was stricken from the Naval Vessel Register in 1973 and eventually sold for scrap in 1975, marking the end of her unique career bridging two eras of naval warfare.
