USS TARAWA

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Branch

U.S. Navy

Members

About USS TARAWA

USS Tarawa (LHA-1) was the lead ship of the Tarawa-class amphibious assault ships in the United States Navy. Commissioned on May 29, 1976, she was designed to embark, deploy, and land elements of a Marine landing force in amphibious assault operations. USS Tarawa played a significant role in numerous operations, including peacekeeping missions in Lebanon in the 1980s and humanitarian relief in Somalia during Operation Restore Hope in 1992–1993. After more than three decades of service, Tarawa was decommissioned on March 31, 2009.

Unit Members

Michael Meade

U.S. Navy (1992-1996)

USS TARAWAView Profile

Sean Crager

U.S. Navy (1996-2000)

USS TARAWAView Profile

Photos

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

FR Jose Ferrera III

U.S. Navy • 1981

About USS TARAWA

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Namesake Heritage: USS Tarawa (LHA-1) was named after the Battle of Tarawa, a fierce World War II battle fought by U.S. Marines in the Gilbert Islands in November 1943. • Lead Ship of Her Class: She was the lead ship of the Tarawa-class amphibious assault ships, designed to deploy Marines and their equipment via helicopters, landing craft, and amphibious vehicles. • Commissioning: USS Tarawa was commissioned on 29 May 1976 at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi, marking a new era for amphibious warfare ships. • First Operational Deployment: Her first deployment was in 1979 to the Western Pacific, demonstrating her ability to serve as a floating base for Marine operations. • Humanitarian Missions: Tarawa participated in multiple humanitarian operations, including disaster relief after the 1991 Bangladesh cyclone, delivering food, water, and medical supplies. • Desert Storm Service: She served during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, supporting Marine operations and acting as a vital component of the coalition forces in the Persian Gulf. • Modernization: Over her career, the ship underwent significant upgrades, such as new radar systems and enhanced aviation facilities, to keep pace with modern warfare requirements. • Homeport: Her homeport was San Diego, California, where she was a familiar sight and a key asset for the U.S. Pacific Fleet. • Decommissioning: USS Tarawa was decommissioned on 31 March 2009, after more than 32 years of distinguished service, and is currently held in reserve. • Legacy: During her service, Tarawa received numerous awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation and Humanitarian Service Medal, reflecting her versatility and impact in both combat and peace.