About this Unit
USS **Hayler** (DD-997) was a Spruance-class destroyer of the United States Navy, commissioned on March 5, 1983. Named after Admiral Robert W. Hayler, the ship was designed primarily for anti-submarine warfare but also carried capabilities for surface and air engagements. Throughout her service, Hayler participated in multiple deployments, including operations in the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Persian Gulf, supporting various fleet exercises and multinational operations. The ship was decommissioned on August 25, 2003, and later sunk as a target during a training exercise in 2004.
Historical Facts
• Unique Namesake: The USS Hayler (DD-997) was named in honor of Admiral Robert W. Hayler, a decorated World War II naval officer who received three Navy Crosses for heroism.
• Last of Her Kind: Hayler was the last Spruance-class destroyer built, and the final destroyer constructed at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi, marking the end of an era for both the shipyard and the class.
• Intended as a Hybrid: Hayler was originally intended to be constructed as a Spruance-class hull with Ticonderoga-class Aegis cruiser weapon systems, but design changes led her to be completed as a standard Spruance-class destroyer.
• Commissioning Date: She was commissioned into service on 5 March 1983, joining the U.S. Atlantic Fleet.
• Deployment History: Hayler participated in numerous deployments, including operations in the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and Persian Gulf, supporting U.S. and allied missions.
• Persian Gulf Operations: During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Hayler took part in Operation Earnest Will, escorting reflagged Kuwaiti oil tankers during the Iran-Iraq War.
• Rescue Operations: In 1988, USS Hayler assisted in the rescue of the crew of the Panamanian freighter MV M/V Leros Strength after it was attacked by Iranian forces in the Gulf.
• Technological Upgrades: Hayler was among the Spruance-class destroyers to receive the Vertical Launching System (VLS) upgrade, allowing her to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles.
• Decommissioning: She was decommissioned on 25 August 2003 after 20 years of service, outliving many of her sister ships.
• Final Fate: In November 2004, USS Hayler was sunk as a target during a fleet training exercise off the U.S. east coast, providing valuable data for future naval operations and weapons testing.
