USS Makin Island (LHD-8)

USS Makin Island (LHD-8) is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship commissioned into the United States Navy on October 24, 2009. Named after the daring 1942 Marine raid on Makin Island during World War II, the ship is notable for being the first of its class powered by a hybrid electric drive, enhancing operational efficiency. Since her commissioning, Makin Island has deployed multiple times to the Pacific and Middle Eastern regions, supporting amphibious operations, humanitarian missions, and joint exercises with allied navies. The ship has played a vital role in power projection and rapid crisis response as part of Expeditionary Strike Groups.