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History of USS Ross (DDG-71)

USS Ross (DDG-71) is an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy in 1997. Named after Medal of Honor recipient Donald K. Ross, the ship has participated in numerous multinational exercises and operations, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and NATO’s Operation Active Endeavour. USS Ross is forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, as part of the U.S. Navy’s ballistic missile defense mission in Europe. Notably, the destroyer has launched Tomahawk missiles during strikes in Syria and continues to support U.S. and allied interests in the Mediterranean and beyond.

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ABOUT USS Ross (DDG-71)

  • Commissioning and Namesake: USS Ross (DDG-71) was commissioned on June 28, 1997, and named after Medal of Honor recipient Captain Donald K. Ross, a heroic engineer during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.
  • Homeport: Originally homeported in Norfolk, Virginia, USS Ross shifted its homeport to Naval Station Rota, Spain, in 2014 as part of the U.S. Navy's forward-deployed presence in Europe.
  • Ballistic Missile Defense: As an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, Ross is equipped with the Aegis Combat System and is a key part of the European Phased Adaptive Approach for ballistic missile defense.
  • Syria Missile Strikes: On April 7, 2017, USS Ross, along with USS Porter, launched 59 Tomahawk cruise missiles at Shayrat Airbase in Syria in response to a chemical weapons attack.
  • NATO Operations: USS Ross regularly participates in NATO exercises and operations, including BALTOPS and Sea Breeze, enhancing interoperability with allied navies.
  • Black Sea Deployments: The destroyer has made several high-profile transits into the Black Sea, promoting security and stability in the region and engaging with NATO partners in joint exercises.
  • Humanitarian Assistance: In 2003, USS Ross provided humanitarian assistance to the West African nation of Liberia during Operation Shining Express, assisting in the evacuation of U.S. citizens.
  • Ship's Motto: The ship's motto is “Fortune Favors the Brave,” reflecting the courage and determination of her namesake and crew.
  • Technological Upgrades: Over her service life, USS Ross has received several upgrades, including advanced radar, communications, and combat systems, keeping her at the forefront of naval technology.
  • Community Engagement: USS Ross sailors are known for their active involvement in community outreach and volunteer activities in homeport cities, fostering strong relationships with local communities both in the U.S. and abroad.

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