About this Unit
USS Normandy (CG-60) is a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy in December 1989. Named after the Allied invasion of Normandy during World War II, the ship has played a vital role in U.S. naval operations, including participation in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, where it launched Tomahawk missiles against Iraqi targets. Over its service, USS Normandy has conducted numerous deployments supporting maritime security, anti-piracy efforts, and multinational exercises. The ship remains an integral asset to the Atlantic Fleet, demonstrating advanced air defense and surface warfare capabilities.
Historical Facts
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Namesake from D-Day: USS Normandy (CG-60) is named in honor of the Allied invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944—D-Day—one of the pivotal operations of World War II.
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Commissioning: The ship was commissioned on December 9, 1989, at Norfolk, Virginia, with Captain William M. Fogarty as its first commanding officer.
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First Tomahawk Launch in Combat: During Operation Desert Storm in 1991, USS Normandy became the first U.S. Navy ship to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles in combat.
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Arleigh Burke Fleet Trophy: In 1993, USS Normandy was awarded the Arleigh Burke Fleet Trophy, recognizing her as the most improved ship in the Atlantic Fleet.
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Humanitarian Operations: The ship has participated in several humanitarian missions, including providing relief during Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
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Capture of Pirate Mother Ship: In March 2011, USS Normandy helped intercept a suspected pirate mother ship off the coast of Oman, contributing to anti-piracy efforts in the region.
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Rescue at Sea: In 2017, the ship rescued two Iranian fishermen stranded in the Persian Gulf, demonstrating the U.S. Navy's commitment to maritime safety regardless of nationality.
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Advanced Aegis Weapons System: USS Normandy is equipped with the Aegis Combat System, allowing the ship to simultaneously track and engage multiple air, surface, and subsurface threats.
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Support for Carrier Strike Groups: The cruiser regularly serves as an air defense commander for carrier strike groups, providing critical protection against missile and air attacks.
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Freedom of Navigation Operations: USS Normandy has participated in freedom of navigation operations in contested waters, notably in the South China Sea and Persian Gulf, upholding international maritime law.
