USS Hayler (DD-997)

• 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.