About this Unit
USS HALYBURTON (FFG-40) was an Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate commissioned by the United States Navy in 1984. Named in honor of Pharmacist’s Mate Second Class William D. Halyburton, a Medal of Honor recipient from World War II, the ship played a vital role in various operations including counter-narcotics patrols and maritime security missions. Notably, in 2009, USS Halyburton participated in the rescue operation of Captain Richard Phillips from Somali pirates. After nearly three decades of service, the frigate was decommissioned in September 2014.
Historical Facts
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Named After a Medal of Honor Recipient: USS Halyburton (FFG-40) was named in honor of Pharmacist's Mate Second Class William D. Halyburton, Jr., who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for heroism during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II.
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Oliver Hazard Perry-class Frigate: She was part of the Oliver Hazard Perry-class of guided-missile frigates, designed for anti-submarine warfare and escort duties during the Cold War era.
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Commissioned in 1984: USS Halyburton was commissioned on January 7, 1984, at Bath, Maine, and served the U.S. Navy for over 30 years.
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Famous Somali Pirate Rescue: In April 2009, USS Halyburton played a key role in the rescue of Captain Richard Phillips from Somali pirates, as depicted in the film "Captain Phillips."
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Helicopter Support: The ship regularly deployed with SH-60 Seahawk helicopters, providing anti-submarine and anti-surface capabilities as part of its LAMPS (Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System) detachment.
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Global Deployments: Halyburton conducted multiple deployments around the world, including the Mediterranean Sea, Persian Gulf, Caribbean, and participated in counter-narcotics operations.
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Decommissioned in 2014: The ship was decommissioned on September 6, 2014, at Naval Station Mayport, Florida, after 30 years of distinguished service.
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Combat Action Ribbon: She earned the Combat Action Ribbon for her participation in combat operations, most notably during Operation Earnest Will, escorting reflagged Kuwaiti tankers in the Persian Gulf.
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Advanced Electronics: USS Halyburton was equipped with the AN/SQQ-89 sonar suite and MK 13 missile launcher, capable of firing Standard and Harpoon missiles, making her a formidable escort in multi-threat environments.
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Museum Ship Future: After decommissioning, there were discussions and community efforts to preserve USS Halyburton as a museum ship to honor her legacy and crew, though as of 2024, she remains in reserve.
