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History of USS The Sullivans (DDG-68)

USS The Sullivans (DDG-68) is an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer commissioned into the United States Navy on April 19, 1997. Named in honor of the five Sullivan brothers who tragically lost their lives aboard USS Juneau during World War II, the ship embodies their legacy of sacrifice and service. Throughout its service, USS The Sullivans has participated in numerous operations, including maritime security patrols, joint exercises with allied navies, and support missions in the Global War on Terrorism. The ship continues to serve as a vital component of the U.S. Navy’s surface fleet, upholding the memory of the Sullivan brothers through dedication and excellence at sea.

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ABOUT USS The Sullivans (DDG-68)

  • Namesake: USS The Sullivans (DDG-68) is named in honor of the five Sullivan brothers—George, Francis, Joseph, Madison, and Albert—who tragically died together when the USS Juneau was sunk during the Battle of Guadalcanal in 1942.
  • Second Ship: This is the second US Navy ship to bear the name "The Sullivans." The previous one was a Fletcher-class destroyer (DD-537), which served from 1943 to 1965.
  • Class and Commissioning: DDG-68 is part of the Arleigh Burke-class of guided missile destroyers and was commissioned on 19 April 1997.
  • Homeport: The ship is homeported in Mayport, Florida, and operates primarily in the Atlantic Fleet.
  • Ship Motto: The ship’s motto is "We Stick Together," reflecting the Sullivans’ family bond and the crew’s unity.
  • Launch and Sponsor: The ship was launched on 12 August 1995, and was sponsored by Kelly Ann Sullivan Loughren, granddaughter of Albert Sullivan.
  • 9/11 Response: USS The Sullivans was one of the first Navy ships to deploy after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, taking part in Operation Enduring Freedom.
  • Missile Defense: The ship is equipped with the Aegis Combat System and has participated in ballistic missile defense exercises and operations.
  • Rescue Operations: In January 2000, The Sullivans rescued the crew of the disabled merchant ship MV Leader off the coast of Spain.
  • Symbolic Crest: The ship’s crest features five gold stars, representing the Sullivan brothers, and shamrocks, honoring their Irish heritage.

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