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USS Harry E. Yarnell (CG 17)

USS HARRY E. YARNELL was the second LEAHY-class guided missile cruiser and the first United States Navy vessel named in honor of Admiral Harry Ervin Yarnell. Reclassified as a guided missile cruiser on June 30, 1975, HARRY E. YARNELL was decommissioned and stricken from the Navy Register on October 29, 1993. Transferred to the Maritime Administration on February 15, 1994, she was laid up in the James River, Virginia, in the Reserve Fleet. Returned to the Navy on April 14, 1995, HARRY E. YARNELL was sold on February 16, 1995 to Northern Metal, New York City, for $294,692.34 for scrapping. Northern Metal was a subsidiary of N.R. Acquisition, Inc., of New York City and sub-contractors of that firm had been closed for polluting the environment. The scrapping contract was terminated in December 1996 and the ship was towed from Quonset Point, R.I., where she was being scrapped, to the Inactive Ship Facility in Philadelphia and accepted for lay-up.

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Crew List:

This section contains the names of sailors who served aboard USS HARRY E. YARNELL. It is no official listing but contains the names of sailors who submitted their information.

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USS HARRY E. YARNELL Cruise Books:

• Mediterranean Cruise Book 1967

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USS HARRY E. YARNELL History:

USS HARRY E. YARNELL was built by Bath Iron Works Corporation at Bath, Maine. Her keel was laid on May 31, 1960, and she was launched on December 9, 1961, sponsored by Mrs. Philip Yarnell, widow of Admiral Yarnell's son. Following completion of construction, fitting-out, and preliminary trials, HARRY E. YARNELL was commissioned at Boston Naval Shipyard on February 2, 1963, with Captain Charles E. Nelson in command.

During January 1963, while HARRY E. YARNELL was completing fitting-out at Bath Iron Works, the guided missile frigate USS WORDEN (DLG 18) was photographed moored alongside her. Following commissioning, HARRY E. YARNELL began a period of equipment inspections, engineering evaluations, weapons-system testing, and initial training. On April 10, 1963, while conducting trials in the Atlantic, HARRY E. YARNELL was ordered to assist in the search for the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS THRESHER (SSN 593), which had disappeared during deep-diving trials off the coast of Massachusetts.

The submarine had been conducting trials in the Atlantic approximately 220 nautical miles east of Boston when communication was lost. HARRY E. YARNELL proceeded to the reported position and searched the surrounding waters for evidence of the missing vessel. During the search, HARRY E. YARNELL discovered an oil slick and floating debris in the area where USS THRESHER had last been reported. Despite the efforts of participating surface ships and aircraft, the submarine could not be contacted or recovered. The loss of THRESHER and all 129 people aboard led to extensive investigations and major changes in the Navy's submarine construction, maintenance, and quality-assurance procedures.

Following the search operation, HARRY E. YARNELL continued her trials and preparations for assignment to the Atlantic Fleet. On April 23, 1963, she proceeded toward her new homeport of Norfolk, Virginia. During the passage, the ship encountered and photographed several Soviet merchant vessels operating in the Atlantic. During the following months, HARRY E. YARNELL conducted shakedown training, missile qualifications, engineering inspections, and special evaluations of her sonar and acoustic equipment. She was also assigned to participate in standardization trials intended to evaluate equipment and procedures used by ships of the LEAHY-class.

From October 28 to November 26, 1963, HARRY E. YARNELL operated in the Caribbean from Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The training included engineering readiness, navigation, communications, missile-system operation, damage control, and antisubmarine warfare exercises. Following completion of the Caribbean training period, the frigate returned to Norfolk and resumed operations in the Virginia Capes area. Additional exercises and maintenance continued during the opening months of 1964.

During the spring and summer of 1964, HARRY E. YARNELL participated in Atlantic Fleet training and readiness evaluations. The exercises included coordinated air-defense operations, antisubmarine warfare training, engineering inspections, and preparations for her first overseas deployment.

On September 8, 1964, HARRY E. YARNELL departed Norfolk for her first transatlantic deployment. The voyage began with NATO antisubmarine warfare exercises in the North Atlantic, where American and allied naval forces conducted coordinated operations in northern waters. The exercises took the ship above the Arctic Circle, which she crossed on September 21, 1964. The training involved operations in difficult weather and sea conditions and required the coordination of surface ships and aircraft during simulated submarine detection and tracking operations. Following completion of the northern exercises, HARRY E. YARNELL proceeded southward and visited Amsterdam, Netherlands, before entering the Mediterranean Sea for operations with the U.S. Sixth Fleet.

During the deployment, HARRY E. YARNELL performed air-defense surveillance, carrier screening, and antisubmarine warfare training. Her radar and guided missile systems contributed to the protection of American naval formations operating in the Mediterranean. The deployment included visits to Mediterranean ports for replenishment, maintenance, and crew rest. On November 8, 1964, HARRY E. YARNELL was photographed at Genoa, Italy, during the cruise.

American naval operations in the Mediterranean during this period involved the maintenance of NATO readiness and surveillance of Soviet naval activity. The Sixth Fleet regularly conducted exercises with allied forces while operating in waters surrounding southern Europe and the eastern Mediterranean. HARRY E. YARNELL returned to Norfolk in February 1965, completing her first overseas deployment. During the following months, she underwent maintenance and resumed exercises with the Atlantic Fleet.

On October 8, 1965, HARRY E. YARNELL departed Norfolk for another Mediterranean deployment. The voyage included carrier support assignments, antiair warfare exercises, and operations with other American and allied naval units. During the deployment, the ship conducted operations in the eastern Mediterranean and participated in surveillance activities associated with Soviet naval movements. On January 3, 1966, HARRY E. YARNELL transited the Dardanelles and entered the Black Sea. The passage placed the American guided missile frigate in waters surrounded by countries of the Warsaw Pact and near important Soviet naval installations.

During the Black Sea operation, HARRY E. YARNELL maintained radar surveillance and conducted routine navigation and communications procedures while operating in an area of considerable political and military interest. The passage took place during the Cold War, when visits and operations by American warships in the Black Sea were relatively uncommon and attracted attention from Soviet naval and air forces. Following completion of the Black Sea operations, HARRY E. YARNELL returned to the Mediterranean and continued Sixth Fleet assignments before arriving at Norfolk in March 1966.

During the spring and summer, the ship participated in NATO exercises in the North Atlantic and conducted additional training along the eastern coast of the United States. For her operational performance during the preceding evaluation period, HARRY E. YARNELL received the Battle Efficiency Award. She also received the 1966 Marjorie Sterrett Battleship Fund Award for the Atlantic Fleet.

During the latter part of 1966, HARRY E. YARNELL participated in exercises in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean. These included missile-system evaluations, antisubmarine warfare training, engineering inspections, and operations with other Atlantic Fleet surface combatants.

The training was followed by preparations for another Mediterranean deployment. In early 1967, HARRY E. YARNELL departed Norfolk for her third assignment with the Sixth Fleet. During the deployment, HARRY E. YARNELL participated in carrier screening, radar surveillance, and training exercises with American and allied naval forces. The activities included coordinated antiair warfare operations, antisubmarine warfare exercises, communications training, and replenishment operations.

The ship visited Mediterranean ports for maintenance, replenishment, official contacts, and crew recreation. Her 1967 Mediterranean cruise book documents the voyage and contains a section devoted to ports and activities, together with photographs of the ship's departments, officers, and crew. American naval forces in the Mediterranean continued monitoring Soviet naval activity while maintaining commitments to NATO and regional security. HARRY E. YARNELL's assignments involved operating with carrier and surface formations and maintaining readiness against possible air and submarine threats. HARRY E. YARNELL returned to Norfolk in May 1967. During the middle of the year, she participated in further exercises in the North Atlantic and subsequently resumed operations along the Atlantic coast.

During the closing months of 1967, HARRY E. YARNELL conducted operational training and maintenance while preparations were made for a major modernization of her combat systems. In 1968, HARRY E. YARNELL was taken out of commission for an extensive modernization at Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. The work was intended to improve her antiair warfare capabilities and extend her operational service life.

A major element of the modernization was the installation of an improved tactical data-processing and combat-direction system. The new equipment provided more effective facilities for collecting, processing, displaying, and exchanging tactical information among ships and aircraft. The modernization also included improvements to missile fire-control equipment, radar installations, communications facilities, and associated electronic systems. Maintenance and repairs were carried out on the ship's propulsion machinery, electrical installations, auxiliary equipment, and structural components. Throughout the remainder of 1968 and the opening months of 1969, HARRY E. YARNELL remained in the shipyard while the modernization continued. As the principal work approached completion, the crew conducted technical training and preparations for the ship's return to operational service.

Following completion of the modernization, HARRY E. YARNELL underwent equipment inspections and post-overhaul trials. The testing program included evaluations of the modified radar and missile-control systems, engineering machinery, and communications installations. On July 12, 1969, HARRY E. YARNELL was recommissioned at Boston, Massachusetts, with Captain Walter G. Lessmann in command. The ship was subsequently assigned to Newport, Rhode Island, as her homeport.

During the second half of 1969, HARRY E. YARNELL continued post-modernization training and evaluations. These included weapons qualifications, engineering inspections, navigation exercises, and operational readiness training. The ship's combat systems underwent further testing to verify the performance of the modernized equipment. The training was accompanied by maintenance and repairs required to prepare the vessel for renewed overseas operations. During the opening months of 1970, HARRY E. YARNELL continued exercises along the Atlantic coast and in the Caribbean. Preparations then began for participation in the annual UNITAS exercises with South American navies.

In July 1970, HARRY E. YARNELL departed Newport for UNITAS XI, an extended deployment involving exercises and port visits around South America. The ship was assigned to serve as flagship for Commander, South Atlantic Force. Rear Admiral Stewart A. Ring commanded the force during the deployment, while HARRY E. YARNELL provided command, communications, and administrative facilities for the multinational exercises. Following departure from Newport, the cruiser visited the Dam Neck area of Virginia and proceeded to San Juan, Puerto Rico, where the admiral and members of his staff embarked.

The ship subsequently continued southward toward the Caribbean coast of South America, visiting Caracas, Venezuela, before proceeding toward Brazilian waters. During the Atlantic coast portion of the deployment, HARRY E. YARNELL visited Salvador, Rio de Janeiro, and Sao Paulo, Brazil. The port visits were associated with official contacts, training, replenishment, and activities involving the participating navies.

UNITAS exercises included antisubmarine warfare, air-defense training, communications procedures, fleet maneuvering, and combined operations with naval forces of the countries visited. A scheduled visit to Montevideo, Uruguay, was canceled because of political developments in the country. HARRY E. YARNELL subsequently returned to Rio de Janeiro for another visit before continuing southward. The ship made a replenishment stop at Comodoro Rivadavia, Argentina, before proceeding toward the southern end of the continent.

During the next stage of the voyage, HARRY E. YARNELL transited the Strait of Magellan and the waterways of southern Chile, entering the Pacific Ocean for the western portion of the UNITAS deployment. The voyage continued along the Pacific coast of South America and included visits and exercises with naval forces of Chile, Peru, and Ecuador. HARRY E. YARNELL subsequently proceeded toward Panama, transited the Panama Canal, and returned to the Atlantic Ocean. The return passage included visits to San Juan and St. Thomas in the United States Virgin Islands before the ship arrived at Newport.

During the closing months of 1970, HARRY E. YARNELL completed post-deployment maintenance and resumed Atlantic Fleet training. During 1971, HARRY E. YARNELL continued participating in Atlantic Fleet exercises and operational readiness evaluations. These activities included missile qualifications, engineering inspections, antisubmarine warfare training, and operations with other surface combatants. The ship also conducted exercises intended to maintain the effectiveness of her modernized combat-direction systems and continued preparing for future Mediterranean deployments.

In late 1972, HARRY E. YARNELL returned to the Mediterranean for another assignment with the Sixth Fleet. During the transatlantic passage, the ship was approached by a Soviet helicopter operating from a Soviet naval vessel. The helicopter maneuvered around HARRY E. YARNELL and photographed the American frigate at close range. The deployment included operations involving Soviet submarines in waters near the Strait of Gibraltar and the Mediterranean approaches to the Black Sea. HARRY E. YARNELL participated in surveillance and tracking operations while maintaining her normal air-defense and antisubmarine warfare readiness. During the Mediterranean deployment, the ship visited Naples, Genoa, and Venice, Italy; Nice, France; Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, and Barcelona, Spain; and Athens, Corfu, Rhodes, and Kavala, Greece.

These visits were interspersed with exercises, replenishment operations, and maintenance periods associated with the continued American naval presence in the Mediterranean. Following completion of the deployment, HARRY E. YARNELL returned to the United States and resumed Atlantic Fleet operations and training.

In August 1973, HARRY E. YARNELL began another Mediterranean deployment. During the outward passage, she visited Lisbon, Portugal, and participated in Exercise Quickshave in waters near Portugal, France, and Britain. The exercise involved coordinated naval operations and training intended to improve the readiness of American and allied forces in the eastern Atlantic. Following the exercise, HARRY E. YARNELL proceeded to Rota, Spain, where she completed an operational turnover with the guided missile frigate USS DALE (DLG 19).

The ship subsequently operated in the western Mediterranean, including surveillance and air-defense assignments near the Balearic Islands. She also participated in group operations near Crete and conducted additional training before visiting Greek and Spanish ports.

On October 6, 1973, Egyptian and Syrian forces launched coordinated attacks against Israel, beginning the Arab-Israeli War commonly known as the Yom Kippur War. The conflict resulted in a rapid increase in American and Soviet naval activity in the Mediterranean. American aircraft carriers and surface combatants were placed on increased alert while the United States organized a large airlift of military supplies to Israel. HARRY E. YARNELL participated in the naval support arrangements associated with Operation Nickel Grass, the American strategic airlift conducted during the conflict.

The airlift involved American transport aircraft carrying military equipment and supplies across the Atlantic and Mediterranean toward Israel. Sixth Fleet surface combatants were positioned along portions of the air route to provide radar surveillance, communications support, and defensive coverage. HARRY E. YARNELL was assigned to an air-defense station off the Algerian coast. The ship maintained radar surveillance of the surrounding airspace while American military transport aircraft crossed the Mediterranean. The assignment required continuous monitoring of aircraft movements and coordination of communications with the transport aircraft and other American naval units.

During the operation, the ship's electronic warfare personnel detected radar emissions associated with a Soviet-designed Myasishche M-4, or Bison, bomber approaching from Algeria. The aircraft was tracked as it approached HARRY E. YARNELL, and the ship's personnel reported indications that its radar was directed toward the American vessel. HARRY E. YARNELL went to general quarters and prepared her Terrier missile systems for a possible engagement. The aircraft passed over the ship and subsequently turned back toward the Algerian coast without attacking. No missiles were fired by HARRY E. YARNELL during the encounter.

The incident occurred during a period of considerable tension between American and Soviet naval forces in the Mediterranean. On October 25, American military forces worldwide were placed at Defense Readiness Condition Three during the international crisis surrounding the war. HARRY E. YARNELL continued her air-defense and surveillance assignments while American transport aircraft maintained the airlift to Israel. Following the cessation of major fighting, the ship continued Sixth Fleet operations, including exercises and visits to Mediterranean ports. The deployment included additional visits to Barcelona and Malaga, Spain. HARRY E. YARNELL subsequently proceeded to Rota, where she completed a turnover with the guided missile frigate USS LEAHY (DLG 16) on January 14, 1974. HARRY E. YARNELL returned to Newport on January 24, 1974, completing the Mediterranean deployment.

After a short period of local operations, the ship entered Philadelphia Naval Shipyard for a major overhaul that would continue for approximately one year. The overhaul included maintenance and modernization of missile launchers, fire-control equipment, radar installations, propulsion machinery, electrical systems, and supporting facilities. The work also involved structural repairs and modifications intended to maintain the ship's operational effectiveness during the following years.

Following completion of the overhaul, HARRY E. YARNELL underwent engineering trials, weapons-system testing, and operational readiness inspections. During the post-overhaul period, the ship made a visit to New York. During the visit, she briefly grounded, requiring inspection before continuing her schedule. Following further preparations and an ammunition-loading period at Naval Weapons Station Earle, New Jersey, HARRY E. YARNELL changed homeport from Newport to Norfolk, Virginia. She subsequently conducted refresher training at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The training included engineering readiness, navigation, damage control, missile-system operation, and antisubmarine warfare exercises. The Caribbean training period also included a visit to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, during the Independence Day holiday in July 1975.

Following completion of the training, HARRY E. YARNELL returned to Norfolk and resumed Atlantic Fleet operations. On June 30, 1975, HARRY E. YARNELL was officially redesignated from guided missile frigate DLG 17 to guided missile cruiser CG 17 as part of the Navy-wide reclassification of major surface combatants. The change reflected the revised classification of large guided missile ships capable of performing fleet air-defense and other cruiser missions.

During the remainder of 1975, HARRY E. YARNELL participated in exercises along the Atlantic coast and in the Caribbean. These activities included missile qualifications, engineering inspections, communications training, and operations with carrier and surface combatant formations.

During 1976, HARRY E. YARNELL deployed to the Mediterranean with the Sixth Fleet. The deployment included multinational exercises and operations associated with the American naval presence during the continuing political and military crisis in Lebanon. The Lebanese Civil War had intensified, creating serious threats to civilians and foreign nationals living in the country. The United States subsequently organized the evacuation of American citizens and other personnel from the Beirut area. HARRY E. YARNELL's service from June 20 to July 27, 1976, qualified for the Humanitarian Service Medal in connection with the evacuation operations. During the crisis, American naval forces maintained ships offshore to support evacuation arrangements, provide communications, and remain available for additional assistance.

Following the humanitarian operations, HARRY E. YARNELL continued Sixth Fleet assignments in the Mediterranean. During September 1976, the cruiser conducted an important diplomatic visit to Romania, a member of the Warsaw Pact that maintained a relatively independent foreign policy within the Soviet-led alliance. On September 9, 1976, HARRY E. YARNELL arrived at Constanta, Romania, on the Black Sea. The ship was commanded by Captain Richard C. Avrit, and Rear Admiral Eugene J. Carroll Jr. was embarked during the visit.

The program included official meetings with Romanian naval authorities, exchanges between American and Romanian personnel, and opportunities for members of the public to visit the American warship. The visit was one of a relatively small number of American naval port calls to Romania during the Cold War and took place while the United States was maintaining diplomatic and naval contacts with countries on both sides of the European political divide. HARRY E. YARNELL departed Constanta on September 13, 1976, and subsequently continued operations in the Mediterranean before returning to the United States.

During the closing months of 1976 and throughout the first half of 1977, HARRY E. YARNELL conducted maintenance, training, and readiness evaluations with the Atlantic Fleet. These included missile-system testing, air-defense exercises, antisubmarine warfare training, and engineering inspections.

In September and October 1977, HARRY E. YARNELL participated in Exercise Ocean Safari 77, a major NATO naval exercise conducted in the North Atlantic and waters near northern Europe. During the exercise, HARRY E. YARNELL served as a flagship for senior American naval commanders, providing command, communications, and tactical information facilities. Ocean Safari involved American and allied surface ships, aircraft carriers, submarines, and maritime patrol aircraft conducting exercises under simulated wartime conditions. The training included coordinated air-defense operations, antisubmarine warfare exercises, communications procedures, and the maneuvering of naval formations across the North Atlantic. For her performance during the evaluation period from October 1, 1977, to September 30, 1978, HARRY E. YARNELL received a Navy Battle Efficiency Award.

During the opening months of 1978, HARRY E. YARNELL prepared for another Mediterranean deployment. The training included engineering inspections, weapons qualifications, and exercises with other Atlantic Fleet units. In April 1978, the cruiser deployed to the Mediterranean for another assignment with the Sixth Fleet. The deployment involved carrier support, air-defense surveillance, and participation in multinational exercises. American naval forces maintained operations in the Mediterranean while monitoring Soviet naval activity and developments in southern Europe and the Middle East.

During the deployment, HARRY E. YARNELL participated in an operation in the Black Sea with the guided missile destroyer USS CHARLES F. ADAMS (DDG 2). The two American warships operated in the Black Sea from June 26 to July 1, 1978. Their presence formed part of the continuing American practice of operating naval vessels in international waters while maintaining observation of Soviet naval activities. The operation required careful navigation and communications as the vessels operated near Soviet and Warsaw Pact naval installations.

Following the Black Sea assignment, HARRY E. YARNELL returned to the Mediterranean and resumed Sixth Fleet exercises and surveillance operations. The deployment included additional training with American and allied naval units and visits to Mediterranean ports for replenishment, maintenance, and crew rest. On October 14, 1978, HARRY E. YARNELL completed an operational turnover with the guided missile cruiser USS BIDDLE (CG 34) at Lisbon, Portugal. Following completion of the deployment, HARRY E. YARNELL returned to the United States and resumed Atlantic Fleet maintenance and training.

During 1979, the cruiser continued operations along the Atlantic coast and participated in exercises intended to maintain the readiness of her weapons and engineering systems. The year also brought increasing political instability in the Middle East. The Iranian Revolution resulted in the collapse of the monarchy and fundamental changes in Iran's relationship with the United States. Following the seizure of the American Embassy in Tehran on November 4, 1979, the United States increased its naval presence in the northern Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea.

During 1980, HARRY E. YARNELL prepared for another extended deployment as American carrier forces continued maintaining a presence near the approaches to the Persian Gulf. On July 16, 1980, Captain Howard F. Burdick Jr. assumed command of HARRY E. YARNELL. During the following months, the cruiser conducted training, maintenance, and operational readiness evaluations in preparation for deployment with an aircraft carrier battle group.

On November 19, 1980, HARRY E. YARNELL departed Norfolk with the battle group centered on the aircraft carrier USS INDEPENDENCE (CV 62). The deployment took the formation across the Atlantic and into the Indian Ocean, where American naval forces were operating during the continuing crisis involving American diplomatic personnel held hostage in Iran. HARRY E. YARNELL participated in carrier screening, air-defense surveillance, and exercises associated with the battle group's operations. The cruiser's long-range radar and missile systems provided air-defense capabilities for the formation while aircraft from USS INDEPENDENCE conducted routine flights and training.

The ship's qualifying service in connection with the Iran contingency extended from December 7, 1980, to March 31, 1981, for which she received the Navy Expeditionary Medal. During the deployment, HARRY E. YARNELL visited Mombasa, Kenya, and ports in Western Australia. From February 3-7, 1981, the ship visited Perth and Fremantle, Australia. The visits provided opportunities for maintenance, replenishment, official contacts, and crew rest during the extended Indian Ocean deployment.

The American naval presence in the region continued through the final phase of the Iranian hostage crisis, which ended with the release of the American hostages on January 20, 1981. Following completion of the Indian Ocean assignment, HARRY E. YARNELL returned through the Atlantic and arrived at Norfolk on June 10, 1981.

During the remainder of 1981, the cruiser underwent post-deployment maintenance and resumed training with the Atlantic Fleet. On August 24, 1981, Captain Robert E. Greer assumed command. The ship continued exercises, engineering inspections, and weapons-system evaluations during the following months. During 1982, HARRY E. YARNELL participated in Atlantic Fleet operations and preparations for renewed Mediterranean service. Her activities included missile qualifications, antisubmarine warfare exercises, communications training, and operational readiness evaluations.

The continuing conflict in Lebanon and the increased American naval presence in the eastern Mediterranean affected Sixth Fleet operations during the year. During 1983, HARRY E. YARNELL deployed to the Mediterranean as American forces became increasingly involved in supporting the multinational peacekeeping presence in Lebanon. The Lebanese Civil War intensified, and American Marines were stationed near Beirut International Airport as part of the multinational force.

On October 23, 1983, a truck bomb destroyed the American Marine barracks at Beirut, killing 241 American service members. American naval forces maintained a substantial presence off Lebanon during the following months, supporting the multinational forces and conducting surveillance and defensive operations. HARRY E. YARNELL participated in these operations during several periods from November 1983 into March 1984. Her officially recognized service in connection with Lebanon included November 6-29 and December 2-18, 1983. Further periods followed from December 27, 1983, to February 6, 1984, and from February 25 to March 2.

During these assignments, HARRY E. YARNELL maintained air-defense readiness, radar surveillance, and communications with other American naval units operating in the eastern Mediterranean. Her guided missile systems provided defensive capabilities for the naval formations supporting the multinational force. The deployment involved extended periods at sea near Lebanon, interrupted by maintenance, replenishment, and visits to Sixth Fleet support facilities. For her service during the period from November 7, 1983, to March 18, 1984, HARRY E. YARNELL received a Meritorious Unit Commendation. On March 31, 1984, HARRY E. YARNELL was photographed at Antwerp, Belgium, during a European port visit. Following completion of her overseas operations, HARRY E. YARNELL returned to the United States for maintenance and further training.

From May 29 to June 22, 1984, the cruiser received maintenance and repair support from the destroyer tender USS SHENANDOAH (AD 44) at Norfolk. The availability included repair work and technical support intended to sustain the operation of the ship's weapons, engineering, and auxiliary systems. During the remainder of 1984, HARRY E. YARNELL continued Atlantic Fleet exercises and operational readiness evaluations. These activities included air-defense training, antisubmarine warfare exercises, missile-system maintenance, and preparations for subsequent deployments.

During 1985, HARRY E. YARNELL continued operating with the Atlantic Fleet and participated in exercises with American and allied naval forces. The increasing range and sophistication of antiship missiles led the Navy to develop further improvements to the defensive capabilities of its older guided missile cruisers. The ship was scheduled for additional modernization work intended to maintain the effectiveness of her combat systems as newer aircraft and missiles entered service with foreign navies. The cruiser subsequently prepared for another Mediterranean deployment with a carrier battle group.

On August 18, 1986, HARRY E. YARNELL deployed with the battle group centered on the aircraft carrier USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV 67). Other ships operating with the formation included the nuclear-powered guided missile cruiser USS BAINBRIDGE (CGN 25) and the guided missile destroyer USS DAHLGREN (DDG 43). The formation crossed the Atlantic and arrived in the Mediterranean in late August, beginning an extended period of operations with the Sixth Fleet.

During the deployment, HARRY E. YARNELL conducted air-defense surveillance, carrier screening, communications exercises, and training with American and allied naval units. The carrier battle group participated in exercises intended to evaluate coordinated air-defense, antisubmarine warfare, and surface warfare procedures. The deployment took place during a period of continuing regional tensions following the American military confrontation with Libya earlier in 1986. HARRY E. YARNELL's documented Mediterranean deployment began several months after Operation El Dorado Canyon in April. During the subsequent months, the cruiser continued carrier support assignments, replenishment operations, and training in Mediterranean waters. The USS JOHN F. KENNEDY battle group completed the deployment and returned to the United States on March 3, 1987.

Following the deployment, HARRY E. YARNELL underwent maintenance and resumed training with the Atlantic Fleet. During the latter part of 1987, the ship entered a major modernization period associated with the New Threat Upgrade program. The modernization was intended to improve the ability of the older LEAHY-class cruisers to detect, track, and engage modern aircraft and antiship missiles, particularly during attacks involving multiple targets. The work was conducted at Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia, and involved substantial modifications to the ship's radar, missile-control, electronic warfare, and combat-direction systems.

Improvements included modernization of the long-range air-search radars, fire-control equipment, tactical data-processing systems, and communications installations. The NTU program improved the integration of surveillance information and the employment of Standard SM-2 extended-range surface-to-air missiles from the ship's forward and aft Mk 10 launchers. Additional work involved maintenance and improvements to engineering machinery, electrical systems, auxiliary equipment, and shipboard facilities. The modernization continued throughout much of 1988. On July 7, 1988, HARRY E. YARNELL was photographed at Norfolk Naval Shipyard while undergoing the extensive work.

Following completion of the principal modernization work, HARRY E. YARNELL underwent engineering inspections, combat-system tests, missile qualifications, and refresher training. During the same year, the cruiser also made a documented visit to Baltimore, Maryland.

During the opening months of 1989, the cruiser returned to operational training as the crew qualified the newly installed and modified equipment. The ship's exercises included missile firing evaluations, engineering inspections, and tactical training intended to restore readiness for overseas deployment. During 1989, HARRY E. YARNELL conducted a VANDALEX missile exercise off the Virginia coast. The training was followed by exercises and readiness evaluations in the Puerto Rican operating area. On June 2, 1989, Captain Gary W. Zwirschitz assumed command of HARRY E. YARNELL.

During July, the cruiser served as host ship for a visit by Soviet naval vessels to Norfolk. On July 21, 1989, HARRY E. YARNELL was photographed at Naval Station Norfolk with members of her crew manning the rails during preparations for the arrival of the Soviet naval delegation. The visiting formation included the Soviet missile cruiser MARSHAL USTINOV. The visit provided opportunities for official contacts and exchanges between American and Soviet naval personnel during a period of improving relations between the two countries. The cruiser subsequently completed additional maintenance and readiness inspections before returning to sea for training.

During August and September 1989, HARRY E. YARNELL conducted exercises in the western Atlantic and Puerto Rican operating areas. The training included FLEETEX 4-89, during which researchers participated in a study of tactical decision-making under stress. The exercises were followed by final preparations for another extended Mediterranean deployment.

On October 12, 1989, HARRY E. YARNELL departed Norfolk for Mediterranean Deployment 1-90. Following the Atlantic crossing, the cruiser conducted operations in the western Mediterranean and anchored for training at Pollença Bay, Mallorca. During early November, HARRY E. YARNELL visited Port Mahon on Menorca, Spain. During the visit, members of the crew participated in maintenance and cleanup work at an American naval cemetery on the island. The cruiser subsequently resumed operations in the western Mediterranean before proceeding eastward toward Italy. On November 12, 1989, HARRY E. YARNELL arrived at Naples, Italy. The port visit included maintenance, logistical support, and official activities. During the stay, the cruiser received a visit from members of the Royal College of Defence Studies, led by Air Marshal Sir Michael Armitage. The ship also received maintenance assistance and completed preparations for further Mediterranean operations.

HARRY E. YARNELL departed Naples on November 28 and conducted operations in the central Mediterranean before arriving at La Spezia, Italy, on December 4. During the visit, the ship received representatives of the Italian naval command, including the Commander of the Northern Tyrrhenian Naval District. HARRY E. YARNELL departed La Spezia on December 9 and continued western Mediterranean operations. On December 20, 1989, the cruiser arrived at Malaga, Spain, for a port visit extending into the opening days of 1990. During the Christmas period, members of the crew organized activities aboard the ship, including a holiday event for children from a local orphanage.

The ship remained at Malaga until January 7, 1990, and subsequently resumed operations in the western Mediterranean. During January, HARRY E. YARNELL conducted training and replenishment activities, including an anchorage at Augusta Bay, Sicily. The cruiser subsequently visited Marseille, Menton, and Saint-Tropez, France, during the western Mediterranean portion of the deployment. The visits were interspersed with exercises, maintenance, and training associated with Sixth Fleet operational requirements. During February 1990, HARRY E. YARNELL proceeded toward the eastern Mediterranean for exercises with regional naval and air forces.

On February 26, the cruiser arrived at Alexandria, Egypt, for preparations associated with Exercise Boston 1-90. The exercise involved American and Egyptian naval and air forces conducting coordinated operations in the eastern Mediterranean. HARRY E. YARNELL exchanged naval observers with Egyptian units, including ABU QIR, EL SUEZ, and RAMADAN. The exercise included surface warfare, air-defense coordination, and over-the-horizon targeting procedures. During the War-at-Sea phase, HARRY E. YARNELL operated as part of the Blue force and participated in exercises against simulated opposing naval and air units. Egyptian F-16 aircraft participated in the exercise, providing opportunities for air-defense training and coordination of radar and tactical information.

Following completion of Boston 1-90, HARRY E. YARNELL remained at Alexandria for a port visit before proceeding toward further operations in the eastern Mediterranean. The cruiser subsequently participated in exercises involving Turkish naval forces and conducted additional Mediterranean training. During March 1990, HARRY E. YARNELL visited Haifa, Israel, and conducted further operations with Sixth Fleet units. The deployment also included participation in Exercise National Week 90 and additional training in the central and eastern Mediterranean. The ship subsequently made a further logistics stop at Augusta Bay before beginning the return passage across the Atlantic. On April 10, 1990, HARRY E. YARNELL returned to Norfolk, completing the Mediterranean deployment.

Following post-deployment maintenance and inspections, the cruiser began preparing for another overseas assignment, this time in northern European waters. The planned deployment involved participation in Exercise BALTOPS 1990, a major multinational exercise conducted in the Baltic Sea. HARRY E. YARNELL served as flagship for Commander, Cruiser-Destroyer Group Two, Rear Admiral Thomas D. Paulsen, during the deployment.

In late May 1990, the cruiser departed Norfolk for the Atlantic crossing and subsequently entered northern European waters. The deployment included operations in the North Sea and Baltic Sea and visits to ports in Denmark and the Federal Republic of Germany. During June, HARRY E. YARNELL visited Aarhus, Denmark, and participated in BALTOPS exercises involving American and allied naval forces. The exercises included coordinated air-defense operations, antisubmarine warfare training, communications procedures, fleet maneuvering, and surface warfare exercises.

HARRY E. YARNELL subsequently visited Kiel, West Germany, during the deployment. The visit took place during the period of political changes that would lead to German reunification later in the year. Following the Kiel visit, the cruiser continued Baltic operations and visited Copenhagen, Denmark. An especially notable event occurred at the end of June, when HARRY E. YARNELL and the guided missile frigate USS KAUFFMAN (FFG 59) were selected to make an official visit to Poland.

On June 27, 1990, the two American warships arrived at Gdynia, Poland. The visit was the first by United States Navy warships to a Polish port since 1927 and took place during a period of political transformation in Poland and across Eastern Europe. HARRY E. YARNELL and USS KAUFFMAN were welcomed by Polish naval authorities and representatives of the American diplomatic mission. Rear Admiral Thomas D. Paulsen participated in the official ceremonies, together with American Ambassador John Davis and other civilian and military representatives. The visit included meetings between American and Polish naval personnel, receptions, tours, and opportunities for members of the Polish public to visit the ships. Among those attending events associated with the visit was Lech Walesa, one of the leading figures of the Polish Solidarity movement. The port visit continued until June 30, 1990, when HARRY E. YARNELL and USS KAUFFMAN departed Gdynia.

Following completion of the Baltic deployment, HARRY E. YARNELL returned to the United States and resumed Atlantic Fleet operations. During the latter part of 1990, the cruiser conducted maintenance, inspections, and training while the Navy adjusted its operational commitments following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait on August 2. American naval forces were deployed to the Middle East under Operation Desert Shield, while units remaining in the Atlantic continued readiness training and preparations for possible overseas assignments. HARRY E. YARNELL continued operating from Norfolk during this period and participated in exercises involving air-defense coordination, engineering readiness, and the operation of her modernized combat systems. During 1991, HARRY E. YARNELL continued Atlantic Fleet service as American naval commitments changed following Operation Desert Storm and the end of the Cold War.

On May 17, 1991, Captain Keith H. Larson relieved Captain Zwirschitz as commanding officer. The ship continued operational training, maintenance, and exercises involving communications, radar surveillance, and air-defense coordination. Her command was included in organizations that received Joint Meritorious Unit Awards for the periods from August 26 to October 10, 1991, and from January 10 to February 14, 1992. These awards recognized the performance of the corresponding joint organizations during the specified periods. They do not independently establish that HARRY E. YARNELL was present in any particular combat area throughout those dates.

During 1992, HARRY E. YARNELL continued operating with the Atlantic Fleet and maintained her capabilities for air defense, antisubmarine warfare, and surface warfare. A further period of overseas service began during the summer of 1992. The ship's official award records document a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon for the period beginning July 20, 1992. The final years of the cruiser's service coincided with changes in NATO operations following the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the emergence of conflicts in the former Yugoslavia.

During this period, American and allied naval forces conducted exercises and maritime security operations in European waters. Although HARRY E. YARNELL remained part of the Atlantic Fleet. During the opening months of 1993, the cruiser continued maintenance, inspections, and operational readiness activities while the Navy prepared to retire older steam-powered guided missile cruisers. The LEAHY-class ships had entered service during the early 1960s and had undergone several major modernizations to maintain their air-defense capabilities. By the beginning of the 1990s, newer combatants equipped with gas-turbine propulsion, advanced phased-array radars, and vertical launching systems were replacing many of the older cruisers.

On April 15, 1993, Commander Jeffrey Maydosz relieved Captain Larson as commanding officer of HARRY E. YARNELL. During the following months, the ship continued operations and preparations for decommissioning. These included maintenance, removal of ammunition and equipment, administrative processing, and the securing of shipboard systems. On October 2, 1993, HARRY E. YARNELL was photographed at Naval Station Norfolk moored alongside the guided missile cruiser USS BIDDLE. Both ships had already had their principal radar antennas removed as preparations for their retirement continued.

On October 20, 1993, USS HARRY E. YARNELL was decommissioned at Norfolk, Virginia. The ship was subsequently stricken from the Naval Vessel Register on October 29, 1993, ending more than thirty years of commissioned service. Following decommissioning, the former cruiser was transferred to the custody of the Maritime Administration on February 15, 1994, and placed in the James River Reserve Fleet in Virginia.

The former HARRY E. YARNELL remained there in inactive status while arrangements were made for her final disposal. In February 1995, the ship was sold to Northern Metal of New York for scrapping. She was subsequently transferred from Maritime Administration custody in April and moved to Quonset Point, Rhode Island, where dismantling work began. The scrapping project subsequently encountered contractual and operational problems. By the end of 1996, only a limited portion of the ship had been dismantled. In December 1996, the Navy terminated the original scrapping contract. The former cruiser was subsequently recovered from the contractor and returned to Navy custody.

In January 1997, HARRY E. YARNELL was transferred to the Naval Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where the remaining hull was placed in storage pending further disposal arrangements. After several years in inactive status, the former cruiser was again transferred for dismantling. During March 2001, HARRY E. YARNELL was photographed undergoing demolition in drydock at the Metro Machine facility in Philadelphia. The former USS BIDDLE was also present at the facility during this period. The dismantling work continued through the following year, with the removal of remaining equipment and the gradual breakup of the hull and superstructure. The scrapping of the former USS HARRY E. YARNELL was completed on April 17, 2002, more than thirty-nine years after her original commissioning.

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