Ricardo J Chaires

USS Monterey (CG 61) is a Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser commissioned into the United States Navy on June 16, 1990. Named after the Battle of Monterey during the Mexican-American War, the ship has played a crucial role in air defense, missile strikes, and maritime security operations. Throughout her service, Monterey has participated in numerous deployments, including support for Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as NATO ballistic missile defense missions in Europe. The cruiser has been recognized for excellence in combat readiness and has contributed significantly to joint and allied naval operations around the world.