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USS San Jacinto (CG 56)

USS SAN JACINTO was the tenth ship in the TICONDEROGA - class of guided missile cruisers and the third ship in the Navy to bear the name of the historic battle. The ship held a decommissioning ceremony at her homeport of Norfolk, Va., on September 15, 2023.

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Crew List:

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

• Click here to view the list.

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• Click here to see which USS SAN JACINTO memorabilia are currently for sale on ebay.

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USS SAN JACINTO Cruise Books:

• Mediterranean Cruise Book 1996
• Mediterranean Cruise Book 2007-08
• Mediterranean and Arabian Gulf Cruise Book 2016

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About the Ship's Coat of Arms:

The shield's wavy pale represents the San Jacinto River and also alludes to the wake of a ship. The representation of the Texas flag on the shield symbolizes the independence won by the Texans in defeating a Mexican Army at the Battle of San Jacinto in 1836. The eagle, a national symbol of both Mexico and the United States, reflects Texas history and victory at San Jacinto. The armed eagle symbolizes the combat readiness of the ship as a part of a strong national defense. Dark blue, the primary color of the shield, and gold, the predominant color of the main charge, are traditionally associated with the Navy.

The crest's propeller alludes to the first USS SAN JACINTO, which was one of the United States Navy's first screw-type warships. The wings suggest the second USS SAN JACINTO (CVL 30), a light aircraft carrier. The stars on the sword denote the five battle honors awarded to the second USS SAN JACINTO for World War II service. The sword connects the present USS SAN JACINTO, with its state-of-the-art technology, to previous ships of that name.

The motto's words, "Victory is Certain", is a quote from General Sam Houston's speech as he spoke to his outnumbered men before the Battle of San Jacinto.

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Accidents aboard USS SAN JACINTO:

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USS SAN JACINTO in the News:

• January 10, 2001 - USS San Jacinto responds to Yemeni vessel's distress call

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History of USS SAN JACINTO:

USS SAN JACINTO was built by Ingalls Shipbuilding at Pascagoula, Mississippi. Construction began on October 5, 1984, and her keel was laid on July 24, 1985. The cruiser was launched on November 14, 1986, and christened on January 24, 1987, by her sponsor, Dr. Wendy Lee Gramm, wife of U.S. Senator Phil Gramm of Texas. Named in commemoration of the Battle of San Jacinto, fought on April 21, 1836, during the Texas Revolution, the ship was commissioned at Houston, Texas, on January 23, 1988, with Captain H. Ward Clark, Jr., in command. Vice President George H. W. Bush attended the commissioning ceremony.

Following commissioning, she departed Houston and proceeded to her first homeport at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, arriving on January 30, 1988. The cruiser subsequently began a period of shakedown training, engineering evaluations and weapons systems testing in the western Atlantic and Caribbean Sea. These activities included exercises to evaluate her SPY-1 phased-array radar, missile systems and aviation facilities. Between November 4 and 20, she participated in Fleet Exercise 1-89 off Puerto Rico, marking her first major multi-ship exercise.

Following further operational evaluations during the opening months of 1989, SAN JACINTO departed Norfolk in late May for her first Mediterranean deployment. Operating under the U.S. Sixth Fleet, the cruiser conducted air-defense and surveillance operations, participated in multinational exercises and supported the American naval presence in the region during the final years of the Cold War. Her deployment took place while the Navy was adjusting carrier schedules in the Mediterranean, and SAN JACINTO provided a surface-based strike warfare capability during a temporary absence of an American aircraft carrier from the region.

Throughout the deployment, SAN JACINTO participated in exercises with allied naval forces and conducted port visits in the Mediterranean. Her activities included integrated air-defense training, surface warfare exercises and the development of procedures for employing Tomahawk cruise missiles from an Aegis cruiser. She returned to Norfolk in November 1989 and subsequently entered a post-deployment maintenance and training period.

During the first half of 1990, SAN JACINTO conducted local operations, inspections and exercises in the western Atlantic. In early August, the cruiser was operating off the Virginia coast with USS LEYTE GULF (CG 55), conducting Cooperative Engagement Capability testing, when Iraqi forces invaded Kuwait on August 2. Both ships were subsequently ordered back to their homeports as the United States began assembling naval forces for deployment to the Middle East under Operation Desert Shield.

On August 16, 1990, SAN JACINTO departed Norfolk on short notice for operations in the Mediterranean Sea and Red Sea. She joined the USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV 67) Contingency Battle Group and operated alongside other American naval units, including USS PHILIPPINE SEA (CG 58) and the aircraft carrier USS AMERICA (CV 66). The deployment followed the establishment of a multinational coalition intended to prevent further Iraqi advances and compel Iraq to withdraw from Kuwait.

During the first months of Operation Desert Shield, SAN JACINTO operated in the Red Sea, serving as the Red Sea Battle Force Anti-Air Warfare Commander. Her responsibilities included coordinating the air-defense picture, monitoring aircraft activity and supporting the protection of American and allied ships. The cruiser also participated in maritime interception operations established to enforce United Nations sanctions against Iraq. Her visit, board, search and seizure teams inspected merchant ships for prohibited cargo, including goods suspected of being transported to Iraq in violation of the sanctions regime.

On January 12, 1991, Captain Paul W. Ecker relieved Captain H. Ward Clark, Jr., as commanding officer of SAN JACINTO. Five days later, the multinational coalition began Operation Desert Storm, the military campaign intended to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait. At approximately 1:30 a.m. on January 17, American warships operating in the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea and Persian Gulf launched the first wave of Tomahawk land-attack missiles against designated Iraqi military targets. SAN JACINTO participated in the opening Tomahawk strikes, launching two cruise missiles during the initial attacks. These launches formed part of the first combat employment of the Tomahawk land-attack missile by the U.S. Navy. During the subsequent campaign, SAN JACINTO continued launching missiles against Iraqi military targets while maintaining her air-defense and maritime surveillance responsibilities in the Red Sea. Official historical accounts differ slightly on the total number of Tomahawks fired by the cruiser, reporting either fifteen or sixteen missiles during the conflict.

While operating in the Red Sea, SAN JACINTO continued maritime interdiction duties and coordinated air-defense activities supporting coalition naval operations. The carrier battle groups of USS AMERICA, USS JOHN F. KENNEDY and other American carriers launched aircraft against Iraqi targets while surface combatants provided surveillance, air defense and missile strike capabilities. Following the liberation of Kuwait and the suspension of offensive operations on February 28, SAN JACINTO remained in the region to support the transition to postwar security operations.

On March 28, 1991, SAN JACINTO returned to Norfolk, completing a deployment lasting more than seven months. Her participation in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm was subsequently recognized through campaign and unit awards. Following a post-deployment standdown, the cruiser resumed maintenance, training and operational evaluations in preparation for further Atlantic Fleet assignments.

During 1992, SAN JACINTO participated in UNITAS XXXIII, a multinational naval exercise involving the United States and South American navies. The exercise took the cruiser around South America and provided opportunities to conduct maritime warfare training with regional partner nations. Activities included surface warfare, anti-submarine exercises, air-defense training, communications procedures and coordinated maneuvering with ships from several South American countries. The UNITAS deployment also emphasized naval operations in coastal waters, where geography, commercial shipping and limited maneuvering space placed additional demands on shipboard sensors and tactical procedures. SAN JACINTO participated in exercises intended to improve the ability of American and regional naval forces to operate together. Following completion of the deployment, she returned to Norfolk for maintenance and training.

In 1993, SAN JACINTO participated in Exercise BALTOPS in the Baltic Sea. The annual multinational exercise involved naval forces from the United States and European countries and focused on improving cooperation, tactical procedures and interoperability in the Baltic region. During BALTOPS 1993, SAN JACINTO embarked a combined aviation detachment operating both SH-60B and SH-60F Seahawk helicopters, allowing the ship to evaluate different helicopter capabilities during coordinated surface and anti-submarine warfare operations.

The exercise also provided opportunities to develop coastal warfare procedures introduced during UNITAS the previous year. SAN JACINTO participated in maritime surveillance, air-defense and tactical exercises with allied naval forces before returning to Atlantic Fleet operations. During the remainder of 1993, she conducted readiness evaluations, equipment maintenance and preparations for another Mediterranean deployment.

In May 1994, SAN JACINTO departed Norfolk with the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73) Battle Group for a deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Middle East. The formation was assigned to support American and allied operations associated with the conflicts in the former Yugoslavia and continued efforts to contain Iraq following the 1991 Gulf War. During the Mediterranean portion of the deployment, SAN JACINTO spent approximately 69 days operating in the Adriatic Sea. The cruiser supported NATO operations associated with the enforcement of the no-fly zone over Bosnia and Herzegovina under Operation Deny Flight. She also contributed to maritime surveillance activities supporting the United Nations arms embargo and economic sanctions imposed during the conflicts accompanying the breakup of Yugoslavia.

In her air-defense role, SAN JACINTO coordinated aircraft tracking and maintained surveillance of the operating area while carrier aircraft conducted patrols and missions associated with NATO's enforcement operations. The cruiser also participated in multinational exercises and coordinated maritime security operations with allied naval forces.

In October 1994, a new crisis developed in the Middle East when Iraqi military formations moved toward the Kuwaiti border. The United States responded by rapidly reinforcing its military presence in the region under Operation Vigilant Warrior. SAN JACINTO was ordered to reposition toward the Red Sea, where her Tomahawk missile capability could be employed if required. Operating with elements of the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON Battle Group, the cruiser took station in the Red Sea as American and allied forces prepared for possible further Iraqi military action.

The immediate crisis subsided following Iraq's withdrawal of its forces from the border region. SAN JACINTO subsequently resumed her remaining deployment assignments and returned to Norfolk in November 1994.

Throughout 1995, SAN JACINTO conducted maintenance, training and readiness exercises in preparation for another Mediterranean and Middle East deployment. Her activities included combat systems evaluations, missile warfare training, engineering inspections and coordinated exercises with other ships assigned to the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON Battle Group.

On January 26, 1996, SAN JACINTO departed Norfolk for another six-month deployment with the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON Battle Group. The formation operated in the Mediterranean Sea and Red Sea, supporting NATO activities associated with the implementation of the Dayton Peace Accords in Bosnia and Herzegovina and continued maritime security operations connected with Iraq. During the deployment, SAN JACINTO participated in multinational naval exercises, including operations involving Russian naval units, reflecting the expanding contacts between Western and Russian armed forces after the Cold War. Her assignments included air defense, surveillance, maritime security and protection of the carrier battle group. She also participated in assistance operations involving merchant shipping in the region. The battle group conducted port visits in the Mediterranean before returning to Norfolk in July 1996.

Following the deployment, SAN JACINTO entered her first extended overhaul period. The availability included maintenance and improvements to engineering equipment, combat systems and other shipboard installations. The work was intended to restore material condition and support continued operational service. After completing the overhaul, the cruiser resumed testing and training along the Atlantic coast.

During late 1997, SAN JACINTO conducted additional exercises and readiness evaluations before preparing for another deployment to the Middle East. On March 15, 1998, she began a deployment with the USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74) Battle Group, which was assigned to maintain an American carrier presence in the Persian Gulf. After a rapid transit toward the Middle East, SAN JACINTO assumed duties as Air Warfare Commander for the USS JOHN C. STENNIS Battle Group and as Regional Air Warfare Commander in the Persian Gulf. These assignments required the cruiser to coordinate the air-defense picture, monitor aircraft activity and integrate naval air-defense capabilities with those of other American and allied forces.

SAN JACINTO supported Operation Southern Watch, the multinational operation enforcing restrictions on Iraqi military aviation south of the 33rd parallel. She also participated in maritime interception operations designed to enforce United Nations sanctions against Iraq. Her duties included surveillance and inspection of commercial shipping, protection of the carrier battle group and coordination of air-defense operations in the northern Persian Gulf.

The deployment also involved assistance to merchant shipping and the execution of routine logistics and maintenance activities at regional ports. After completing her Middle East assignments, SAN JACINTO returned to Norfolk in July 1998. Following the transfer of USS JOHN C. STENNIS to the Pacific Fleet, SAN JACINTO was reassigned to the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75) Battle Group.

During 1999, SAN JACINTO conducted maintenance, training and operational certifications from Norfolk. The cruiser participated in Fleet Week New York, where American naval vessels conducted public tours, ceremonial activities and community events. Further exercises focused on air defense, surface warfare, anti-submarine operations and preparations for the first extended deployment of the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Battle Group.

During 2000, SAN JACINTO completed the training cycle for her next overseas deployment. The activities included Joint Task Force Exercise 01-1 and NATO Exercise Unified Spirit 2000, which involved multinational naval training and coordinated operations with allied forces.

On November 28, 2000, SAN JACINTO departed Norfolk with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Battle Group for a six-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Persian Gulf. The cruiser embarked Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 42, Detachment Eight, operating two SH-60B Seahawk helicopters. As the principal Aegis cruiser in the formation, SAN JACINTO served as Air Warfare Commander and provided air-defense coordination for carrier operations.

After proceeding through the Mediterranean Sea and Suez Canal, the battle group entered the U.S. Fifth Fleet area of responsibility. SAN JACINTO supported Operation Southern Watch, coordinating air-defense operations as American and allied aircraft monitored and enforced restrictions on Iraqi military aviation. The cruiser also participated in maritime interception operations in the northern Persian Gulf, where coalition ships inspected commercial vessels suspected of violating United Nations sanctions.

On December 30, 2000, a Seahawk helicopter from SAN JACINTO discovered a disabled Yemeni vessel approximately 60 miles off the coast of Yemen. The vessel's engine had failed, leaving eleven people adrift for approximately ten days. The occupants had exhausted much of their food and water and were attempting to attract the attention of passing ships. SAN JACINTO dispatched assistance and provided sufficient food and drinking water to allow the vessel's occupants to continue toward the coast.

During the remaining months of the deployment, SAN JACINTO continued air-defense, surveillance and maritime security duties associated with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Battle Group. The formation operated in the Persian Gulf and surrounding waters while carrier aircraft conducted missions in support of Operation Southern Watch. SAN JACINTO subsequently returned through the Suez Canal and Mediterranean Sea and arrived at Norfolk on May 23, 2001.

Following her return, SAN JACINTO conducted maintenance, inspections and further training along the East Coast. After the terrorist attacks against the United States on September 11, 2001, the Navy expanded its operational commitments to support homeland defense and the developing military campaign against al-Qaeda and Taliban forces in Afghanistan. SAN JACINTO continued preparing for further deployment assignments while American naval forces supported Operation Enduring Freedom.

During 2002, SAN JACINTO completed engineering inspections, combat systems evaluations and operational training in preparation for a Mediterranean and Middle East deployment with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Battle Group. On December 5, 2002, SAN JACINTO departed Norfolk with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Battle Group for operations in the Mediterranean Sea and Middle East. The deployment took place as tensions surrounding Iraq's weapons programs and compliance with United Nations resolutions continued to increase. The cruiser served as Air Defense Commander for the carrier battle group and was responsible for maintaining a coordinated air-defense picture, monitoring aircraft movements and protecting ships against potential airborne and missile threats.

In the Mediterranean, SAN JACINTO participated in exercises and maritime security operations with other American and allied ships. As preparations for possible military action against Iraq intensified, the cruiser was assigned additional responsibilities associated with the formation and employment of naval strike forces. In March 2003, SAN JACINTO operated in the Red Sea as part of the American and British naval forces assembled for Operation Iraqi Freedom. The operation began on March 20 with air and missile strikes against Iraqi military and government targets, followed by coalition ground operations. SAN JACINTO participated in the opening phase of the naval missile campaign.

Between March 15 and 28, 2003, SAN JACINTO operated in the Red Sea under the U.S. Fifth Fleet, serving as an air-defense and strike warfare platform. During the campaign, the cruiser launched twenty-nine Tomahawk land-attack missiles against designated targets in Iraq, one of the largest missile expenditures by any individual surface combatant operating in the Red Sea during the conflict. SAN JACINTO also coordinated air-defense and airspace management activities for American naval formations supporting operations over Iraq. These forces included elements of the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN and USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71) carrier strike groups. The simultaneous employment of multiple carriers and other surface combatants required detailed coordination of aircraft movements, missile flight paths and naval air-defense systems.

In addition to her strike warfare duties, SAN JACINTO conducted maritime interception operations to identify vessels suspected of supporting terrorist organizations or transporting prohibited cargo. Boarding teams inspected commercial shipping in the region while naval aircraft and surface combatants maintained surveillance of important maritime routes. Following the opening phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom, SAN JACINTO continued providing maritime security and air-defense support before returning to the Mediterranean Sea. She arrived at Norfolk on May 23, 2003.

During the first months of 2004, SAN JACINTO conducted maintenance and operational training in the Atlantic before deploying to northern European waters for Exercise BALTOPS 2004. The annual Baltic Operations exercise involved naval forces from NATO members, partner nations and several non-NATO countries. The exercise was intended to improve multinational maritime cooperation, communications and tactical procedures in the Baltic Sea. On June 7, 2004, BALTOPS 2004 began with American and European naval forces participating in a series of exercises. SAN JACINTO served as the flagship of Rear Admiral Thomas Kilcline, the commander of the exercise, and operated alongside USS OSCAR AUSTIN (DDG 79) and warships from numerous European countries. More than 5,000 personnel from thirteen countries participated in the exercise.

The training included coordinated surface warfare, air defense, anti-submarine warfare, mine countermeasures, replenishment at sea, maritime interception operations and amphibious activities. Participating forces also practiced the evacuation of non-combatants and coordination between naval and ground units. The multinational exercise reflected the increasing cooperation among NATO members and Baltic Sea countries following the enlargement of NATO earlier that year. After completing the principal sea phase of BALTOPS, SAN JACINTO arrived at Kiel, Germany, on June 18, 2004, together with USS OSCAR AUSTIN. Both ships moored at the Tirpitzhafen naval base and participated in activities associated with Kiel Week, including official visits and public access arrangements. SAN JACINTO departed Kiel on June 21. Following the Baltic deployment, the cruiser returned to Atlantic Fleet operations and continued maintenance and training in preparation for a further Middle East deployment.

During the first half of 2005, SAN JACINTO participated in training and readiness exercises with the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Carrier Strike Group. The formation included USS DONALD COOK (DDG 75), USS OSCAR AUSTIN and the Spanish Navy frigate ALVARO DE BAZAN (F 101). The strike group conducted coordinated air-defense, surface warfare and anti-submarine exercises, including a Joint Task Force Exercise in July.

On September 1, 2005, SAN JACINTO departed Norfolk with the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Carrier Strike Group for a six-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Middle East. The deployment supported the continuing military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and maritime security missions in the Persian Gulf and surrounding waters. Following port visits and operations in the Mediterranean, the formation transited the Suez Canal on September 27 and proceeded into the Red Sea. During the evening of September 28, the Spanish frigate ALVARO DE BAZAN reported that a crew member was seriously ill and required urgent medical treatment ashore. Medical personnel from USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT assessed the situation and determined that evacuation was necessary. SAN JACINTO dispatched an embarked SH-60B Seahawk helicopter to assist the Spanish frigate. The helicopter transported the patient to a medical facility ashore after a flight covering more than 140 nautical miles.

After entering the Persian Gulf in October 2005, SAN JACINTO supported maritime security operations associated with Operation Iraqi Freedom. The cruiser operated near Iraq's offshore oil terminals, including Al Basra and Khawr al-Amaya, which were considered important to Iraq's economy and remained vulnerable to attacks by insurgent and terrorist groups. On November 18, 2005, Royal Navy Commodore Bruce Williams assumed command of Combined Task Force 58 during a ceremony aboard SAN JACINTO. The cruiser subsequently served as the task force flagship, providing command and control facilities for multinational maritime security operations in the northern Persian Gulf. The task force coordinated surveillance, patrols and defensive operations intended to protect offshore oil infrastructure and maintain security around commercial shipping routes.

During the deployment, SAN JACINTO worked with American and coalition ships conducting maritime security patrols, boarding operations and surveillance in the Persian Gulf. Her activities included monitoring approaches to the Iraqi oil terminals, coordinating naval patrol areas and providing air-defense support for the wider carrier strike group. Logistical and port visits included Bahrain and Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates. After completing her Middle East assignments, SAN JACINTO transited the Suez Canal on February 15, 2006, together with USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT. The carrier strike group subsequently crossed the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. SAN JACINTO returned to Norfolk in March 2006, completing a deployment of approximately six months.

During the remainder of 2006 and the opening months of 2007, SAN JACINTO underwent post-deployment maintenance, inspections and training. The cruiser subsequently resumed integrated exercises with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group, preparing for another deployment to the Mediterranean and Middle East. These activities included air-defense training, anti-submarine warfare exercises, engineering assessments and coordinated carrier operations.

On November 5, 2007, SAN JACINTO departed Norfolk with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group. The formation included USS HUE CITY (CG 66), USS CARNEY (DDG 64), USS OSCAR AUSTIN, USS WINSTON S. CHURCHILL (DDG 81), USS MONTPELIER (SSN 765) and the Canadian frigate HMCS CHARLOTTETOWN (FFH 339).

The deployment included operations in the Mediterranean Sea and Persian Gulf, supporting American naval commitments associated with the Iraq War and regional maritime security. SAN JACINTO performed air-defense, surveillance and carrier escort duties, coordinating with other surface combatants and naval aircraft. The strike group operated in the U.S. Sixth and Fifth Fleet areas of responsibility during a period of continuing military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. On January 9, 2008, SAN JACINTO was at Naples, Italy, where Admiral Mark Fitzgerald, Commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe, visited the ship. The cruiser subsequently continued operations in the Mediterranean and visited Souda Bay, Crete, arriving on January 28. During March, SAN JACINTO again operated in Greek waters and was photographed at Souda Bay on March 14 together with USS PHILIPPINE SEA.

During the deployment, the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group conducted operations in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, including carrier flight operations associated with American military activities in Iraq. SAN JACINTO provided maritime security and air-defense support as part of the wider formation. Additional activities involved cooperation with allied naval forces, replenishment operations and regional port visits. Following completion of the deployment, SAN JACINTO returned to Norfolk on June 4, 2008, after approximately seven months overseas. The cruiser subsequently entered a period of maintenance and training, followed by further Atlantic Fleet operations.

During 2009, SAN JACINTO conducted local operations and readiness exercises in the western Atlantic. On April 27, the cruiser responded to a boating accident in the Chesapeake Bay after a small aluminum fishing boat capsized. SAN JACINTO dispatched two rigid-hull inflatable boats to assist. One of the boats helped recover and tow the damaged fishing vessel toward shore, while the U.S. Coast Guard continued searching for a missing occupant. One of the two fishermen involved in the accident died.

During the remainder of 2009, SAN JACINTO conducted training for an independent deployment focused on maritime security and counter-piracy operations. These preparations included specialized boarding-team instruction, weapons training, aviation qualifications and exercises involving the identification, tracking and inspection of suspect vessels.

On January 21, 2010, SAN JACINTO departed Norfolk for a seven-month deployment to the U.S. Fifth and Sixth Fleet areas of responsibility. Unlike earlier assignments primarily focused on the protection of aircraft carriers, the cruiser was employed as an independent surface combatant conducting maritime security and counter-piracy missions. Her operations were concentrated in the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea, where attacks by Somali pirates against merchant shipping had become a significant international concern. During the deployment, SAN JACINTO supported Combined Task Force 151, the multinational counter-piracy task force operating in the Gulf of Aden and surrounding waters. Her embarked helicopters provided surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, while the ship's boarding teams conducted investigations and inspections of suspect vessels. The cruiser also supported maritime security operations under Combined Task Force 150.

On May 26, 2010, SAN JACINTO encountered a suspicious dhow approximately 68 nautical miles southeast of Ras Fartak, Yemen. The cruiser dispatched a visit, board, search and seizure team to investigate the vessel. During the inspection, the boarding team discovered weapons, including AK-47 rifles and rocket-propelled grenades, and determined that five Yemeni mariners had been held captive by suspected Somali pirates. The Yemeni crew reported that their dhow had been seized the previous day. SAN JACINTO's boarding team secured the vessel and detained the suspected pirates without armed resistance. The five Yemeni mariners were released from captivity, and the situation was subsequently coordinated with Yemeni authorities.

On May 31, 2010, SAN JACINTO responded to another piracy incident when the Maltese-flagged merchant vessel AVENUE BEAUTY reported an attempted attack approximately 90 miles north of Somalia. The merchant ship's crew had implemented defensive measures after hearing gunfire, causing the suspected pirates to abandon the attack and flee. SAN JACINTO launched an embarked helicopter, designated Proud Warrior 433, to pursue the fleeing skiff. After the suspects failed to comply with instructions to stop, the helicopter fired warning shots. The skiff was subsequently stopped and nine suspected pirates were detained for questioning and inspection. Their equipment was confiscated before they were released in accordance with the procedures governing the operation.

Within approximately one week, SAN JACINTO had disrupted two piracy incidents involving a total of twenty-two suspected pirates. During the deployment, SAN JACINTO also participated in multinational exercises and maritime security cooperation activities involving naval forces from Australia, South Korea, Pakistan, Israel, Greece, Jordan and the United Kingdom. Her crew provided medical assistance to merchant mariners during separate incidents and participated in community assistance activities during overseas visits. On August 11, 2010, SAN JACINTO returned to Norfolk, completing her seven-month deployment. During the remainder of the year and throughout 2011, the cruiser underwent maintenance, inspections and operational training in preparation for future carrier strike group assignments.

During 2012, SAN JACINTO conducted exercises and training with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group. The activities included integrated anti-submarine warfare, air-defense and surface warfare training off the southeastern coast of the United States. On October 13, 2012, SAN JACINTO collided with the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS MONTPELIER while both vessels were participating in exercises off the coast of northeastern Florida. The collision occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. local time as the submarine was rising toward periscope depth. SAN JACINTO sustained damage to her sonar dome and associated underwater equipment. No personnel aboard either vessel were injured, and the submarine's nuclear propulsion system was not damaged.

Following the accident, SAN JACINTO returned to port for damage assessment. On November 1, 2012, the cruiser entered a BAE Systems dry dock at Mayport, Florida, for emergency repairs. The initial repair contract was valued at approximately $9.7 million, while subsequent assessments placed the total cost at approximately $13 million. The repairs involved the replacement and restoration of the damaged sonar dome, inspections of the surrounding hull and related underwater equipment, and additional work required to restore the ship to operational condition. The unplanned dry-docking prevented SAN JACINTO from participating in the originally scheduled deployment of the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group, which was subsequently delayed for budgetary reasons.

Following completion of the repairs and subsequent operational training, SAN JACINTO resumed preparations for deployment. On July 22, 2013, she departed Norfolk with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group for a nine-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Middle East. Other participating surface combatants included USS GETTYSBURG (CG 64), USS BULKELEY (DDG 84), USS CARNEY, USS MASON (DDG 87) and additional destroyers operating with the formation.

During the initial Mediterranean transit, SAN JACINTO conducted exercises and communications training with allied naval forces. Late on August 3, 2013, the cruiser received a distress request from the Turkish Navy training ship TCG CEZAYIRLI GAZI HASAN PASA (A 579), which reported that a crew member required urgent medical treatment. SAN JACINTO altered course and proceeded toward the Turkish vessel. During the early hours of August 4, the sick sailor was transferred aboard SAN JACINTO by small boat and subsequently evacuated by Seahawk helicopter to Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, for further medical treatment.

On August 10, 2013, SAN JACINTO arrived at Split, Croatia, for a four-day port visit before continuing eastward through the Mediterranean. The cruiser subsequently transited the Suez Canal and entered the U.S. Fifth Fleet area of responsibility, where she supported maritime security operations and carrier strike group activities. During the deployment, SAN JACINTO operated in the Red Sea, Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf. Her responsibilities included air-defense coordination, maritime surveillance and protection of the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group while aircraft from the carrier conducted missions over Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The cruiser conducted periodic logistics and maintenance visits to Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain. On December 5, 2013, SAN JACINTO visited the Hidd/Manama area in Bahrain during a scheduled port period.

On November 16 and 17, 2013, SAN JACINTO assisted two mariners aboard a disabled fishing vessel in the Red Sea. The cruiser responded to the vessel's situation and provided assistance before the mariners were transferred to Yemeni authorities. During December 2013 and January 2014, SAN JACINTO continued operations with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group. The formation conducted combined exercises with French naval forces, including the aircraft carrier CHARLES DE GAULLE (R 91), in the Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf. These activities emphasized coordinated carrier operations, maritime security and the integration of American and French naval capabilities.

Following completion of her Middle East assignments, SAN JACINTO returned through the Suez Canal and Mediterranean Sea. She arrived at Naval Station Norfolk on April 18, 2014, completing a deployment of approximately nine months. After returning to Norfolk, SAN JACINTO entered an extensive maintenance period. In July 2014, BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair received a contract modification valued at approximately $29.8 million for the cruiser's fiscal year 2014 Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability. The maintenance work involved repairs and preservation of the hull, propulsion and auxiliary equipment, inspections of underwater systems and work on combat systems and other shipboard installations.

SAN JACINTO remained in the shipyard throughout the latter part of 2014 and into 2015 as maintenance and restoration work progressed. The cruiser subsequently resumed testing and operational training in preparation for further fleet assignments. These activities included sea trials, engineering evaluations, combat systems testing and the restoration of operational qualifications following the lengthy shipyard period.

During the second half of 2015, SAN JACINTO participated in training and readiness exercises with Atlantic Fleet forces. The ship's operational preparations continued into early 2016 as she prepared for deployment with the USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN 69) Carrier Strike Group.

On June 1, 2016, SAN JACINTO departed Norfolk with the USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER Carrier Strike Group for a seven-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Middle East. The cruiser served as Air and Missile Defense Commander for the formation and was assigned to support operations in the U.S. Sixth and Fifth Fleet areas of responsibility. The deployment took place during the multinational military campaign against the Islamic State organization in Iraq and Syria. SAN JACINTO provided air-defense and maritime security capabilities in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, protecting American naval formations while carrier aircraft conducted combat operations. The cruiser also supported Combined Task Forces 51, 55 and 61 during operations in the Middle East.

Throughout the deployment, SAN JACINTO operated in the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf. Her activities included air-defense coordination, maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare and logistical support operations. The ship's two embarked MH-60R Seahawk helicopters from Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 74, Detachment One, conducted surface search, classification and anti-submarine missions. Port visits during the deployment included Naples, Italy; Piraeus, Greece; Manama, Bahrain; and Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates. The cruiser also conducted extensive replenishment operations at sea, allowing her to remain underway for prolonged periods in support of the carrier strike group.

During the seven-month deployment, SAN JACINTO traveled more than 52,500 nautical miles and completed twenty-nine underway replenishments, receiving more than 5.2 million gallons of fuel and over 1,000 pallets of supplies. Her helicopter detachment accumulated more than 950 flight hours during surveillance and anti-submarine warfare operations. On December 30, 2016, SAN JACINTO returned to Norfolk, completing her deployment with the USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER Carrier Strike Group. Following a post-deployment standdown, the cruiser underwent inspections, maintenance and training in preparation for further Atlantic Fleet assignments.

During May 2017, SAN JACINTO participated in Fleet Week New York, an annual event involving American and allied naval forces and public engagement activities. The cruiser arrived in New York Harbor on May 24 and moored at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. Other participating American ships included USS KEARSARGE (LHD 3), USS MONTEREY (CG 61) and USS LASSEN (DDG 82). During the event, SAN JACINTO opened to visitors and participated in ceremonial and community activities. She departed New York on May 30, 2017, and returned to routine Atlantic Fleet operations.

During the remainder of 2017 and throughout 2018, SAN JACINTO conducted maintenance, operational training and readiness evaluations from Norfolk. Activities included exercises in the western Atlantic, engineering assessments, combat systems qualifications and preparations for future operational assignments. The cruiser remained assigned to the Atlantic Fleet during this period.

On April 6, 2019, SAN JACINTO conducted an underway replenishment with the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS WILLIAM McLEAN (T-AKE 12) in the Atlantic Ocean. The evolution formed part of routine Second Fleet operations and operational certification activities. During the remainder of 2019, SAN JACINTO continued preparations for another extended deployment. Training activities included coordinated operations with the USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER Carrier Strike Group, air-defense exercises, anti-submarine warfare training and the completion of deployment readiness requirements.

On January 17, 2020, SAN JACINTO departed Norfolk with USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER for an operational period that began with the carrier strike group's final Composite Training Unit Exercise. Following completion of the exercise, the ships proceeded directly into their scheduled deployment without returning to port. The deployment coincided with the beginning of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. To minimize the risk of infection and preserve operational readiness, the Navy restricted port visits and personnel movements. SAN JACINTO and USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER subsequently remained continuously underway for more than six months.

During the deployment, SAN JACINTO operated in the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea and Arabian Sea, supporting the U.S. Fifth and Sixth Fleet missions. The cruiser served as Air Defense Warfare Commander under Commander Task Force 58 and supported Operations Sentinel and Freedom's Sentinel, which involved maritime security in the Middle East and continued American military activities in Afghanistan.

SAN JACINTO also participated in coordinated operations with the French aircraft carrier CHARLES DE GAULLE, the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group, the USS BATAAN (LHD 5) Amphibious Ready Group and British naval forces operating in the region. These activities included maritime surveillance, integrated air defense and exercises involving carrier strike groups and amphibious formations.

On June 25, 2020, SAN JACINTO and USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER reached 161 consecutive days at sea without a port visit, establishing a new modern U.S. Navy endurance record for the two ships. The prolonged deployment required continuous replenishment at sea, extensive logistical coordination and additional measures to maintain equipment and personnel readiness during the pandemic. SAN JACINTO subsequently began the return transit to the United States. On August 9, 2020, she arrived at Norfolk together with USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, completing approximately 206 consecutive days at sea without a port visit. The deployment was later recognized with a Navy Unit Commendation, presented to the ship in August 2021.

Later in 2020, SAN JACINTO received an unusual independent assignment in the Atlantic Ocean near Cape Verde, off the western coast of Africa. The deployment was connected with the detention of Alex Saab, a businessman associated with the Venezuelan government who was being held in Cape Verde pending legal proceedings concerning a requested extradition to the United States. The American naval presence was intended to deter possible attempts to remove Saab from Cape Verde before the conclusion of the extradition proceedings. The assignment differed from SAN JACINTO's usual carrier escort and maritime security missions and took place during a period of political tension between the United States and Venezuela.

During the first months of 2021, SAN JACINTO underwent maintenance, inspections and training following her extended 2020 operations. On May 21, 2021, Captain Christopher Marvin relieved Captain Edward Crossman as commanding officer during a ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk. Crossman's command had included the 2020 deployment with the USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER Carrier Strike Group.

On August 2, 2021, SAN JACINTO received the Navy Unit Commendation for her performance during the 2020 deployment. The award recognized the ship's sustained operations as part of the USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER Carrier Strike Group, including the prolonged period at sea during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Throughout the remainder of 2021, SAN JACINTO conducted maintenance and pre-deployment training in preparation for assignment to the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group. The exercises focused on air defense, anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, integrated carrier operations and maritime security.

On December 1, 2021, the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group began its scheduled deployment from the U.S. East Coast. SAN JACINTO was assigned to the formation and was operating in the European theater by December 14. The deployment was originally intended to support American naval commitments in both European and Middle Eastern waters, but the developing security crisis involving Russia and Ukraine resulted in an extended period of operations in the Mediterranean. During the opening weeks of the deployment, SAN JACINTO participated in exercises and maritime security operations with American and NATO naval forces. The cruiser provided air-defense coordination and surveillance capabilities while the carrier strike group maintained a presence in the Mediterranean during a period of increasing concern over Russian military deployments near Ukraine.

In January 2022, SAN JACINTO participated in Exercise Neptune Strike 2022, a NATO maritime activity intended to demonstrate the alliance's ability to integrate an American carrier strike group into its operational command structure. The exercise involved coordinated operations among American and allied naval forces, including carrier aviation, surface combatants and supporting aircraft.

Following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group remained in the European theater. SAN JACINTO continued air-defense, surveillance and maritime security operations in the Mediterranean, supporting NATO's increased readiness and deterrence activities. During the deployment, SAN JACINTO operated with French and Italian naval forces, including the French aircraft carrier CHARLES DE GAULLE (R 91) and the Italian aircraft carrier CAVOUR (C 550). The multinational operations included coordinated carrier exercises, air-defense training and maritime maneuvering intended to improve interoperability among the participating navies.

On May 6, 2022, SAN JACINTO conducted an underway replenishment with the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS SUPPLY (T-AOE 6) in the Mediterranean Sea. The evolution formed part of the logistical support required to sustain the extended deployment of the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group. During May, SAN JACINTO also participated in Neptune Shield 2022, a NATO enhanced vigilance activity conducted between May 17 and 31 in the Baltic, Adriatic and Mediterranean regions. The exercise integrated naval, air and land forces from several NATO countries and emphasized the rapid coordination of multinational maritime operations.

Throughout the spring and summer of 2022, SAN JACINTO continued operating in European waters. Her deployment included port visits at Rota, Spain; Souda Bay and Piraeus, Greece; Venice, Italy; and Barcelona, Spain. These visits provided opportunities for maintenance, logistics and engagement with allied naval forces and local authorities. On June 26, 2022, SAN JACINTO arrived at Valletta, Malta, for a scheduled port visit. The cruiser had spent the preceding weeks participating in Mediterranean operations and exercises with NATO allies and regional partners. The visit was followed by further training and maritime security activities.

On July 20, 2022, SAN JACINTO arrived at Split, Croatia, during another scheduled port visit. Prior to arriving, the cruiser had participated in combined operations in the Mediterranean, including a passing exercise with vessels of the Armed Forces of Malta Maritime Squadron. The Croatian visit formed part of the continued American naval presence and engagement with NATO partners in the Adriatic region. During the final months of the deployment, SAN JACINTO continued operations with the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN Carrier Strike Group before beginning her return voyage to the United States. On September 8, 2022, the cruiser arrived at Naval Station Norfolk, completing a nine-month deployment.

Following her return, SAN JACINTO entered a period of post-deployment maintenance and inspections. During the closing months of 2022 and the first half of 2023, the Navy prepared the cruiser for retirement. The preparations included the removal of operational equipment, the securing of shipboard systems and other measures necessary for inactivation.

On September 15, 2023, USS SAN JACINTO held her decommissioning ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, marking the conclusion of more than 35 years of service in the U.S. Navy. The ceremony was attended by former crew members, naval personnel and guests associated with the ship's history. Vice Admiral James W. Kilby, Deputy Commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Command, was among the senior officers participating in the event. Following the completion of her inactivation, the former USS SAN JACINTO was transferred to the Naval Inactive Ship Maintenance Facility at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she was retained pending a decision on her final disposition.

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About the Cruiser's Name, about the Battle of San Jacinto:

The name SAN JACINTO honors the 21 April 1836 battle by the San Jacinto River in Texas, where General Sam Houston and his greatly outnumbered Texas soldiers won independence for the Republic of Texas, decisively defeating General Santa Anna and his Mexican Army. On the morning of 21 April, General Houston slept past reveille - his first real rest in six weeks - and awoke to full daylight. Studying the clear sky, he saw an eagle circling overhead. He spent the day formulating his battle plan and, at three o'clock, formed his troops. It was Mexican siesta time; the confident Santa Anna was sleeping, as were many of his men. They would wake, if at all, to face a western sun behind the Texans. General Houston made an eloquent speech to his troops, closing with inspiring words, "Victory is certain! ... Remember the Alamo!" He had given them their battle cry.

At four o'clock, General Sam Houston, astride a big white horse, raised his sword. A drum and fife began to play as the ragtag army moved out of the mossy oak trees that concealed them. They proceeded up a slight incline toward the resting Mexicans, who did not stir. Then came the noise of battle, the rumble of hooves, as the Texas Cavalry charged, the blast of Houston's two small cannons, his infantry's first shocking volley, shouted battle cries - "Remember the Alamo!" Surprise was complete.

Despite desperate attempts to rally, the Mexicans were overwhelmed, as Texans fell upon them with Bowie knives and rifle butts. In twenty minutes, the battle was over. Santa Anna donned civilian clothes and tried to escape, but was captured. He surrendered to Houston, who lay under a tree, his foot shattered by a rifle ball. The extent of victory was impressive: 630 Mexicans killed, 208 wounded, 730 taken prisoner. The Texas army of 900 warriors lost only nine men.

The Battle of San Jacinto established "The Republic of Texas," that flourished for a decade. The victory eventually added over one million square miles of territory to the United States. From this vast area came the States of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, California, Utah, Colorado, Wyoming, Kansas, and Oklahoma.

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USS SAN JACINTO Patch Gallery:

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USS SAN JACINTO Image Gallery:

The photo below was taken by Karl-Heinz Ahles and shows USS SAN JACINTO at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on May 11, 1999.

The photos below were taken by me on June 19, 2004, and show the SAN JACINTO in port Kiel, Germany, after her participation in BALTOPS 2004 in the Baltic Sea.

The photos below were taken by Carl Groll and show the SAN JACINTO entering Kiel on June 18 (the first two pictures); moored at Kiel on the morning of June 21 and departing Kiel later that day.

The photos below were taken by me and show the USS SAN JACINTO at BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair, Norfolk, Va., on November 9, 2008.

The photos below were taken by me and show the USS SAN JACINTO dry-docked at the BAE Shipyard, Norfolk, Va., on October 29, 2010.

The photos below were taken by me and show the USS SAN JACINTO at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on May 6, 2012.

The photo below was taken by Michael Jenning and shows the USS SAN JACINTO at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on May 8, 2014. She is still wearing the homecoming garland on the bow from her homecoming on April 18. The SAN JACINTO had been deployed for 9 months.

The photo below was taken by Michael Jenning and shows the USS SAN JACINTO drydocked at BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair at Norfolk, Va., during her Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability (DSRA). The photo was taken on October 23, 2014.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the USS SAN JACINTO still at BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair at Norfolk, Va., on April 29, 2015.

The photo below was taken by Michael Jenning and shows the USS SAN JACINTO at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on October 6, 2015.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the USS SAN JACINTO at New York City during Fleet Week New York on May 26, 2017.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the USS SAN JACINTO at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on October 4, 2017.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the USS SAN JACINTO at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on September 21, 2018.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the decommissioned SAN JACINTO laid up at Naval Base Norfolk, Va., on October 9, 2023. She is now waiting to be towed to Philadelphia, Penn.

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