USS New Orleans (LPD-18)

• Namesake Legacy: USS New Orleans (LPD-18) is the fourth U.S. Navy ship named after the city of New Orleans, Louisiana, continuing a proud naval tradition. • San Antonio-Class Origin: She is the second vessel in the San Antonio-class of amphibious transport docks, a class designed to support Marine Corps expeditionary missions. • Launched After Hurricane Katrina: USS New Orleans was christened on November 20, 2004, just months before Hurricane Katrina devastated her namesake city in August 2005. • Commissioning Ceremony: The ship was commissioned on March 10, 2007, in New Orleans, with many local dignitaries and citizens in attendance, symbolizing the city's recovery and resilience. • Collision Incident: On March 20, 2009, USS New Orleans collided with the submarine USS Hartford in the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in minor injuries and a 25,000-gallon fuel spill. • Humanitarian Assistance: In November 2013, USS New Orleans was deployed to the Philippines to provide disaster relief following Typhoon Haiyan, delivering supplies and aid. • Spacecraft Recovery: She has participated in NASA’s Orion spacecraft recovery tests, helping to develop procedures for future astronaut return missions. • Flexible Operations: The ship can carry up to 800 Marines as well as their equipment, vehicles, and landing craft, demonstrating its versatility in both combat and humanitarian roles. • Mardi Gras Connections: USS New Orleans often celebrates Mardi Gras at sea, fostering a unique crew tradition that honors her namesake's culture. • Technological Advances: The ship features advanced command and control facilities, stealthy design elements, and reduced crew requirements compared to older amphibious ships.