The USS McINERNEY is the lead production vessel of the Oliver Hazard Perry Class of guided missile frigates, the largest class of destroyer-type ships built since World War II.

McINERNEY's mission is to provide multi-threat protection for military and merchant shipping, amphibious task forces and underway replenishment groups.

Since her commissioning on 15 December 1979, McINERNEY has performed well in every facet of her mission. From her selection as LAMPS MARK III test platform, through two consecutive COMSIXTHFLT 'Hook 'Em Awards for Anti-Submarine Warfare excellence, to her designation by COMNAVSURFLANT at the top AN/SQQ-89 platform in the Atlantic Fleet, every assignment is a chance for McINERNEY to excel.

During Desert Shield/Desert Storm, McINERNEY performed well in every warfare area, including Escort, Mine Warfare, Anti-Air and Anti-Surface operations. The ship is credited with the destruction of over fifteen floating mines and the escorting of over 50 merchant vessels through mine swept waters enroute to Kuwaiti ports.

McINERNEY has proudly earned the Combat Action Ribbon, the Coast Guard Operational Meritorious Unit Citation, the Navy Unit Commendation, the Meritorious Unit Citation with Bronze Star, the National Defense Service Medal, the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with four Bronze Stars, the Kuwaiti Liberation Medal and the Southeast Asia Service Medal with two Bronze Stars.

McINERNEY's electronics technology and weapons systems, combined with her skilled crew and professional leadership, set her apart as one of the most capable ships in the U.S. Navy. The USS McINERNEY will remain a vital component of the United States Navy in support of operations to protect Freedom and Democracy.