USS Oldendorf (DD-972)

• Namesake: USS Oldendorf (DD-972) was named after Admiral Jesse B. Oldendorf, a distinguished U.S. Navy officer best known for his pivotal role during the Battle of Surigao Strait in World War II, part of the larger Battle of Leyte Gulf. • Spruance-class Destroyer: USS Oldendorf was a Spruance-class destroyer, one of the most advanced and versatile classes of destroyers in the U.S. Navy during the Cold War era. • Commissioning: The ship was commissioned on March 4, 1978, at Pascagoula, Mississippi, and served the U.S. Navy for over 25 years. • Homeport: Oldendorf was homeported in both Long Beach, California, and later in Yokosuka, Japan, making her an important asset in the Pacific Fleet. • Operation Desert Storm: USS Oldendorf participated in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, serving as part of the coalition naval forces enforcing the blockade against Iraq and providing naval gunfire support. • Collision Incident: In 1989, Oldendorf made headlines after colliding with the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz during a nighttime underway replenishment in the Pacific Ocean, resulting in minor damage and no serious injuries. • Anti-Submarine Warfare: The ship was equipped with advanced sonar and anti-submarine weaponry, playing a key role in tracking and deterring Soviet submarines during the Cold War. • Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat operations, Oldendorf participated in humanitarian missions, including disaster relief in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. • Decommissioning: USS Oldendorf was decommissioned on June 20, 2003, and subsequently sunk as a target during a training exercise, helping provide realistic training for new generations of naval forces. • Legacy: The ship’s motto was "Stand and Fight," reflecting both her namesake’s valor and the ship’s distinguished service history across the globe.