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USS Lake Erie (CG 70)

USS LAKE ERIE was the twenty-fourth TICONDEROGA-class guided missile cruiser and the first U.S. Navy cruiser to be commissioned at Pearl Harbor, Hi. She was the second ship to bear the name.

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Crew List:

This section contains the names of sailors who served aboard USS LAKE ERIE. 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 LAKE ERIE memorabilia are currently for sale on ebay.

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USS LAKE ERIE Cruise Books:

• WestPac Cruise Book 1997
• WestPac Cruise Book 2014

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About the Ship's Coat of Arms:

Red, white and blue are our National colors. The blue alludes to water; the nine red and white sections combine to suggest the US fleet action of the Battle of Lake Erie. The naval sword and musket, crossed to imply strength and cooperation, are combined with the American Eagle to depict defense of, and devotion to, country.

The carronades are emblematic of the American firepower that was so decisive in the Battle of Lake Erie. The olive branches symbolize peace, achieved and maintained through strength and military preparedness. The trident, red for courage and valor, is a traditional naval symbol that typifies an AEGIS cruiser's capabilities on the surface, subsurface, and in the air.

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USS LAKE ERIE in the News:

• June 26, 2002 - Joint Rescue On The High Seas

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History of USS LAKE ERIE:

USS LAKE ERIE was built by Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. Her keel was laid on March 6, 1990, and she was launched on July 13, 1991. Following construction and sea trials, the cruiser was assigned to the Pacific Fleet and commissioned at Naval Station Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on July 24, 1993. Her initial months in service were devoted to crew training, equipment testing, combat-system certification, and preparations for operational deployment.

During 1994, LAKE ERIE completed training and readiness exercises in the Hawaiian operating areas and the eastern Pacific. The cruiser subsequently joined the battle group centered on USS CONSTELLATION (CV 64), which departed San Diego on November 10, 1994, for a deployment to the Western Pacific and Persian Gulf. After operating in the Western Pacific during December, the battle group proceeded across the Indian Ocean toward the Middle East.

On January 11, 1995, LAKE ERIE entered the Persian Gulf with the seven-ship USS CONSTELLATION Battle Group. The deployment supported Operation Southern Watch, the enforcement of restrictions on Iraqi military flights over southern Iraq established after the 1991 Gulf War. LAKE ERIE provided air-defense coverage, maritime surveillance, and command-and-control support for the carrier battle group.

From February 6 to 17, 1995, LAKE ERIE participated in Exercise SHAREM 110 in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. The exercise evaluated anti-submarine warfare tactics against diesel-electric submarines operating in shallow and confined waters. USS TOPEKA (SSN 754) simulated an opposing submarine, while LAKE ERIE and USS VANDEGRIFT (FFG 48) formed part of the surface forces conducting detection and tracking exercises. The first phase took place in the southern Persian Gulf, followed by a second phase in the Gulf of Oman outside the Strait of Hormuz. From February 17 to 19, LAKE ERIE visited Fujairah, United Arab Emirates.

From February 24 to March 3, 1995, LAKE ERIE participated in Operation United Shield off the coast of Somalia. The multinational naval operation supported the withdrawal of the remaining United Nations peacekeeping forces from Mogadishu. American and coalition naval forces provided security for the evacuation, which was completed on March 3. Following the operation, LAKE ERIE proceeded to the northern Red Sea, where she operated from March 4 to 21 as a Tomahawk-ready strike ship and strike coordinator. These duties included maintaining the capability to conduct cruise-missile operations if directed.

Following her operations in the Red Sea, LAKE ERIE continued across the Indian Ocean. From April 7 to 11, she visited the Perth and Fremantle area of Western Australia before proceeding eastward across the Pacific. On May 14, 1995, LAKE ERIE returned to Pearl Harbor, completing her first major overseas deployment.

During 1996, LAKE ERIE conducted operational training, maintenance, and combat-system evaluations in preparation for further Pacific Fleet assignments. The ship's Aegis combat system provided the basis for an expanding role in the Navy's development of sea-based theater ballistic missile defense, which at the time remained an experimental capability.

From February 10 to 21, 1997, LAKE ERIE participated in Pacific Joint Task Force Exercise 97-1 (PACJTFEX 97-1) off Southern California. The exercise was part of a series of fleet training events previously known as FLEETEX and placed greater emphasis on coordination between the Navy and other branches of the U.S. armed forces. Activities included integrated air defense, surface warfare, communications, and joint command procedures.

During the spring of 1997, LAKE ERIE deployed again with the USS CONSTELLATION Battle Group. On May 16, the battle group entered the Arabian Sea and subsequently operated in the Persian Gulf in support of Operation Southern Watch and regional maritime security missions. In July, USS CHOSIN (CG 65) transferred the duties of regional Air Defense Commander to LAKE ERIE. The assignment made LAKE ERIE responsible for coordinating the air-defense activities of participating naval forces within her designated area.

In early August 1997, LAKE ERIE participated in two theater ballistic missile defense exercises in the Persian Gulf under the name ARABIAN SKIES. The exercises evaluated the ability of the existing naval command-and-control architecture to detect, track, and distribute information about simulated ballistic missile threats. They involved coordination between the ships of the USS CONSTELLATION Battle Group and other participating units.

On August 17, 1997, the USS CONSTELLATION Battle Group departed the U.S. Fifth Fleet area of responsibility. Before leaving the region, the group conducted the four-day joint exercises Inspired Siren 97-2 and Inspired Alert 97-2 with Pakistani military forces. The exercises involved surface and air units and concentrated on combined naval operations, communications, and tactical procedures. LAKE ERIE subsequently continued across the Indian and Pacific Oceans before returning to Pearl Harbor.

In August 1998, LAKE ERIE and USS PORT ROYAL (CG 73) received modifications to their Aegis combat systems under the Navy's LINEBACKER program. The modifications included specialized radar-processing software, computing equipment, and tracking capabilities intended to support the detection and engagement of theater ballistic missiles. The program formed part of the Navy Area Theater Ballistic Missile Defense effort, which was developing a ship-based capability against short- and medium-range ballistic missiles.

The LINEBACKER modifications were intended to operate with the developmental Standard Missile-2 Block IVA interceptor. During the following months, LAKE ERIE and USS PORT ROYAL participated in technical evaluations and at-sea testing intended to assess the upgraded Aegis system's ability to track ballistic missile targets. The ships also supported the development of operational procedures and tactics for future fleet employment. Successful LINEBACKER sea trials were conducted at the Pacific Missile Range Facility near Kauai, Hawaii, during the autumn of 1998. The trials were developmental tests rather than the introduction of a fully operational fleet-wide ballistic missile defense capability.

In 1999, LAKE ERIE continued missile-defense-related training and preparations while also conducting regular fleet operations. The cruiser deployed again with the USS CONSTELLATION Battle Group for a six-month deployment to the Western Pacific and Persian Gulf. The deployment included maritime security operations, training, and carrier escort duties. On December 17, 1999, LAKE ERIE returned to Naval Station Pearl Harbor.

During 1999 and early 2000, the Navy continued developing its Aegis Lightweight Exoatmospheric Projectile Intercept program, commonly known as ALI. The program was intended to demonstrate the use of the Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) and a kinetic warhead to intercept ballistic missile targets outside the Earth's atmosphere.

USS SHILOH (CG 67) conducted an early ALI flight test in September 1999, demonstrating the missile's launch sequence, third-stage separation, and flight stability at high altitude. Although USS SHILOH had originally been scheduled to conduct additional flight tests, operational commitments conflicted with the test program. The Navy therefore selected LAKE ERIE to conduct subsequent missile firings.

By March 2, 2000, LAKE ERIE was undergoing ALI equipment modifications at Pearl Harbor. The installation included additional computer programs, hardware, and system interfaces required for the developmental missile tests. Following the modifications, the cruiser conducted equipment checks, crew training, and preparations for missile launches at the Pacific Missile Range Facility.

In July 2000, the Navy announced that LAKE ERIE had been designated its principal test ship for the theater-wide Aegis Lightweight Exoatmospheric Projectile intercept flight-test series. The designation was expected to keep the cruiser primarily engaged in developmental missile testing for approximately two years. Pearl Harbor's proximity to the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai allowed the ship to conduct repeated trials without extended deployments to other testing areas.

In January 2001, LAKE ERIE conducted the Aegis Lightweight Exoatmospheric Projectile Intercept Flight Test Round FTR-1A. Operating in the Pacific Missile Range Facility test area, the cruiser launched a developmental SM-3 missile equipped with ALI computer programs and hardware. The test demonstrated the missile's third-stage stability and control and the separation sequence associated with its kinetic warhead. The SM-3 was being developed to intercept ballistic missile threats during the midcourse phase of flight, outside the atmosphere.

On February 9, 2001, LAKE ERIE departed Pearl Harbor to assist in search-and-rescue operations following the collision between USS GREENEVILLE (SSN 772) and the Japanese fisheries training vessel EHIME MARU. The collision occurred approximately nine miles south of Diamond Head, Oahu, while USS GREENEVILLE was conducting an emergency ballast tank blow as part of a training demonstration. The submarine struck EHIME MARU, which sank within approximately ten minutes in water about 1,800 feet deep. Twenty-six of the 35 people aboard the Japanese vessel survived, while nine were lost. LAKE ERIE joined Coast Guard cutters, boats, aircraft, and other naval units in the search effort.

On January 25, 2002, LAKE ERIE conducted Flight Mission-2 (FM-2), an important developmental test of the Sea-Based Midcourse element of the Ballistic Missile Defense System. An Aries ballistic missile target was launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai. LAKE ERIE detected and tracked the target with her AN/SPY-1 radar, developed a fire-control solution, and launched a developmental SM-3 interceptor.

The missile's kinetic warhead acquired the target and successfully struck it outside the Earth's atmosphere. Although the principal purpose of FM-2 was to evaluate kinetic-warhead guidance, navigation, and control, the test resulted in a successful hit-to-kill intercept. It was the first successful direct intercept of a ballistic missile target by the developmental sea-based system. The test also demonstrated the operation of the Solid Divert and Attitude Control System used to maneuver the kinetic warhead toward its target.

During the spring of 2002, LAKE ERIE continued developmental testing and associated training. Her activities included equipment evaluations, missile-system preparations, and operations in the Pacific Missile Range Facility test areas. The cruiser also made a voyage to the central and southern Pacific, including a visit to Sydney, Australia, in April.

On June 13, 2002, LAKE ERIE conducted Flight Mission-3 (FM-3), another successful ballistic missile defense test. The cruiser launched an SM-3 interceptor against an Aries ballistic missile target fired from the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai. The interceptor's kinetic warhead successfully struck the target outside the atmosphere, providing additional data on the Aegis ballistic missile defense system and its ability to perform a controlled intercept.

Within hours of completing the missile test, LAKE ERIE received a request to assist an injured crew member aboard the Dutch-operated ocean-going tug PEQUEN, which was approximately 700 miles west of Oahu. The sailor had suffered a serious head injury and required urgent medical attention. LAKE ERIE and USS O'KANE (DDG 77), both operating near Kauai, proceeded toward the tug to support the rescue.

On June 14, 2002, the combined rescue operation involved two SH-60B Seahawk helicopters from Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light 37, two medical specialists from Tripler Army Medical Center, and a U.S. Coast Guard C-130 aircraft. Because of the distances involved, USS O'KANE positioned herself between Kauai and LAKE ERIE to provide helicopter refueling support. The helicopters transported a neurosurgeon and an anesthesiologist toward the scene, making intermediate refueling stops.

Despite six- to eight-foot seas and significant swells, personnel from LAKE ERIE used a rigid-hull inflatable boat to transfer the injured mariner from PEQUEN to the cruiser. After receiving treatment aboard LAKE ERIE, the patient was evacuated by helicopter to Tripler Army Medical Center on Oahu. USS O'KANE supplied more than 1,200 gallons of aviation fuel during the operation, while LAKE ERIE covered more than 700 nautical miles in responding to the emergency.

On November 21, 2002, LAKE ERIE conducted another SM-3 intercept test in the Pacific Missile Range Facility operating area. The interceptor successfully struck its ballistic missile target approximately three and a half minutes after the target launch. This was the third consecutive successful intercept in the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense development program.

On December 11, 2003, LAKE ERIE launched an SM-3 interceptor during another Missile Defense Agency flight test. The target was a medium-range ballistic missile launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility at Barking Sands, Kauai. The two missiles collided approximately 137 kilometers above the Earth at a relative speed of about 3.7 kilometers per second. The test also included evaluations of long-range surveillance, tracking, and communications between participating Navy ships and command-and-control facilities in Colorado. It was the fourth successful intercept by the sea-based element of the Ballistic Missile Defense System.

In June 2004, LAKE ERIE visited Portland, Oregon, to participate in the 97th annual Portland Rose Festival. Following the visit, she returned to Hawaii to participate in Exercise Rim of the Pacific 2004 (RIMPAC 2004), a multinational naval exercise involving surface combatants, submarines, aircraft, and other military forces operating in Hawaiian waters.

On August 23, 2004, LAKE ERIE departed Pearl Harbor for a four-month deployment to the Western Pacific. The cruise included maritime security operations and training associated with the Navy's continuing support of the Global War on Terrorism. It was the cruiser's first regular extended overseas deployment following several years of intensive missile-defense testing. LAKE ERIE returned to Pearl Harbor on December 18, 2004.

On February 24, 2005, LAKE ERIE conducted another successful SM-3 ballistic missile intercept. During the test, a short-range ballistic missile target was launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility at Barking Sands. LAKE ERIE detected the target, developed a fire-control solution, and fired an SM-3 interceptor, which struck the missile approximately 100 miles from Kauai.

On November 17, 2005, LAKE ERIE launched another SM-3 during a joint Missile Defense Agency and Navy flight test. The interceptor successfully engaged a separating ballistic missile target launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility. The test was the sixth successful intercept in seven Aegis ballistic missile defense flight tests conducted to that point.

On March 8, 2006, LAKE ERIE participated in Joint Control Test Vehicle-1 (JCTV-1), a cooperative missile-defense test conducted by the Missile Defense Agency, the U.S. Navy, and the Japan Defense Agency. The cruiser launched an SM-3 missile modified with a Japanese-designed advanced nose cone. The test evaluated the modified missile's performance and its integration with the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense weapon system. It formed part of the continuing American-Japanese cooperation on development of the SM-3 interceptor.

On May 25, 2006, LAKE ERIE conducted the first successful sea-based intercept of a ballistic missile target during the terminal phase of flight. Unlike previous tests, which had used SM-3 interceptors to engage targets outside the atmosphere, this engagement employed a Standard Missile-2 against a short-range ballistic missile target descending toward the Earth. The test demonstrated the potential for an Aegis-equipped surface ship to engage ballistic missile threats during their terminal flight phase.

On April 26, 2007, LAKE ERIE participated in another missile-defense test involving simultaneous defense against different types of threats. The cruiser launched an SM-3 against a unitary ballistic missile target fired from the Pacific Missile Range Facility. Approximately three minutes later, the SM-3 successfully intercepted the ballistic missile. During the same test, LAKE ERIE launched a Standard Missile-2 against a simulated hostile aircraft target. The event demonstrated the ability of an Aegis-equipped ship to conduct ballistic missile defense while maintaining conventional air-defense capabilities. The ballistic missile engagement was the eighth successful intercept in ten program flight tests.

On May 4, 2007, LAKE ERIE departed Pearl Harbor for a four-month deployment to the Western Pacific. During the deployment, she participated in Exercise Talisman Saber, a major combined military exercise involving American and Australian forces. The cruiser also operated with carrier groups centered on USS KITTY HAWK (CV 63), USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74), and USS NIMITZ (CVN 68), conducting carrier escort, air-defense, and integrated fleet training. On September 4, 2007, LAKE ERIE returned to Pearl Harbor.

In February 2008, LAKE ERIE was selected to conduct a special missile interception mission involving a malfunctioning American reconnaissance satellite. The National Reconnaissance Office satellite USA-193, launched in December 2006, had failed shortly after reaching orbit and was expected to make an uncontrolled reentry into the Earth's atmosphere. American authorities expressed concern about the satellite's remaining hydrazine fuel and the potential danger if the fuel tank survived reentry.

On February 20, 2008, during Operation Burnt Frost, LAKE ERIE launched a modified SM-3 missile and successfully intercepted USA-193 approximately 133 nautical miles above the Pacific Ocean. The satellite was traveling at more than 17,000 miles per hour at the time of the engagement. The interceptor struck the satellite and destroyed it. USS DECATUR (DDG 73) and USS RUSSELL (DDG 59) also participated in the operation, providing supporting capabilities and contributing to the coordinated naval effort.

Following Operation Burnt Frost, LAKE ERIE resumed training and fleet operations from Pearl Harbor. On June 26, 2008, she was documented at Naval Station Pearl Harbor during preparations for RIMPAC 2008. The exercise involved ships, submarines, aircraft, and military personnel from several Pacific nations and included coordinated surface warfare, air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and maritime security training.

During 2009, LAKE ERIE continued operational training, maintenance, and fleet exercises in the Hawaiian operating areas. The ship also maintained her ballistic missile defense qualifications as the Navy expanded the number of Aegis-equipped ships capable of conducting missile-defense operations.

In early 2010, LAKE ERIE deployed to the Western Pacific for Seventh Fleet operations. On March 11, 2010, she visited Manila, Philippines, during a regional patrol that included maritime presence operations and training with American and partner naval forces. During the summer, she returned to Hawaiian waters to participate in RIMPAC 2010. The exercise took place primarily during July and included multinational maritime warfare training, tactical maneuvering, communications exercises, and live-fire activities.

In the spring of 2011, LAKE ERIE participated in Exercise Trident Fury in waters off British Columbia, Canada. The exercise brought together American and Canadian naval forces for a series of coordinated maritime warfare activities. From late April to mid-May, LAKE ERIE conducted air-defense, surface warfare, and gunnery training, including exercises involving her 5-inch guns.

From June 13 to 24, 2011, LAKE ERIE participated in Exercise Northern Edge in the Gulf of Alaska. The large joint exercise included forces from the U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. LAKE ERIE served as an air-defense commander during the exercise, coordinating the identification and tracking of simulated threats and working with other surface units, including USS DECATUR. The training involved joint command procedures, defensive counter-air operations, and coordination between naval and land-based aircraft.

During 2012, LAKE ERIE continued supporting the development of the second-generation Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense weapon system. The year included participation in RIMPAC 2012 and further testing of the SM-3 Block IB interceptor, which incorporated improvements in guidance, target discrimination, and kinetic-warhead maneuvering.

On May 9, 2012, LAKE ERIE conducted the first successful live-fire intercept test of the SM-3 Block IB interceptor with the Aegis BMD 4.0.1 weapon system. A short-range ballistic missile target was launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai. LAKE ERIE detected and tracked the missile, developed a fire-control solution, and launched the interceptor. The SM-3 Block IB successfully struck the target over the Pacific Ocean.

On June 26, 2012, LAKE ERIE conducted another successful SM-3 Block IB intercept during Flight Test Maritime-18 (FTM-18). The ballistic missile target was launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility at approximately 11:15 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time, corresponding to the early morning of June 27 on the U.S. East Coast. The target separated during flight, presenting a more complex engagement scenario. LAKE ERIE tracked the missile using her AN/SPY-1 radar and launched an SM-3 Block IB interceptor, whose kinetic warhead successfully destroyed the target by direct impact. This was the second consecutive successful intercept test involving the SM-3 Block IB and the Aegis BMD 4.0.1 weapon system.

On February 12, 2013, LAKE ERIE conducted Flight Test Maritime-20 (FTM-20), demonstrating a Launch-on-Remote capability using tracking information provided by space-based sensors. The test involved the engagement of a medium-range ballistic missile target over the Pacific Ocean. LAKE ERIE launched an SM-3 interceptor using externally supplied tracking information to support the engagement, and the target was successfully intercepted.

On May 15, 2013, LAKE ERIE conducted Flight Test Maritime-19 (FTM-19). During the test, the cruiser launched an SM-3 Block IB interceptor against a separating ballistic missile target. The engagement successfully demonstrated the interceptor's ability to identify and destroy the target after separation.

On September 9, 2013, LAKE ERIE participated in search-and-rescue training with three ships of the People's Liberation Army Navy off Oahu, Hawaii. The Chinese ships were the destroyer QINGDAO (DDG 113), frigate LINYI (FFG 547), and fleet replenishment ship HONGZEHU (AOR 881). The vessels had visited Pearl Harbor from September 6 to 9. The training included simulated search-and-rescue operations, medical assistance, damage control, communications, firefighting, and pipe-patching exercises.

On September 18, 2013, LAKE ERIE conducted Flight Test Maritime-21 (FTM-21), the first salvo engagement involving two SM-3 Block IB interceptors fired against a single ballistic missile target. The test evaluated the ability of the Aegis BMD weapon system to manage multiple interceptor launches during the same engagement. The target was successfully intercepted.

On October 3, 2013, LAKE ERIE conducted Flight Test Maritime-22 (FTM-22), successfully intercepting a medium-range ballistic missile target with an SM-3 Block IB. The test formed part of the continuing evaluation of the Aegis BMD 4.0.1 system and the Block IB interceptor against increasingly complex ballistic missile threats.

During the first half of 2014, LAKE ERIE conducted another Western Pacific deployment while still homeported at Pearl Harbor. She returned to Hawaii on June 16, 2014. Later that summer, the Navy began transferring the cruiser to San Diego for an extensive shipyard availability. On August 29, 2014, LAKE ERIE departed Pearl Harbor for her new homeport of San Diego.

The move was associated with an Extended Dry-Docking Selected Restricted Availability at BAE Systems San Diego Ship Repair. A contract awarded on August 25, 2014, initiated major maintenance and modernization work. The availability included repairs to hull, mechanical, and electrical systems, equipment replacement, and combat-system improvements. LAKE ERIE remained in the shipyard through approximately June 2015 before beginning the process of restoring operational readiness.

During the second half of 2015, LAKE ERIE conducted post-maintenance training, equipment checks, and certifications in the Southern California operating areas. These activities continued through 2016 as the cruiser completed basic-phase training, team trainers, combat-system evaluations, and integrated fleet exercises. San Diego became her principal operating base for the remainder of her commissioned service.

In early 2017, LAKE ERIE participated in preparations for the deployment of the USS NIMITZ Carrier Strike Group, including Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) off Southern California. On March 19, 2017, while participating in pre-deployment operations, LAKE ERIE responded to a distress call from a civilian wooden vessel carrying 25 people. The vessel was taking on water, and LAKE ERIE dispatched an eight-member rescue and assistance team aboard a rigid-hull inflatable boat. After boarding the distressed vessel, the team found that water was entering through two cracks in the hull at an estimated rate of approximately 1,200 gallons per minute. The sailors used wooden shoring and dewatering equipment to reduce the flooding and stabilize the vessel. After the situation was brought under control, responsibility for further assistance was transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard.

On May 8, 2017, LAKE ERIE departed San Diego for a seven-month independent deployment to the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Middle East. The cruiser operated in the U.S. Seventh and Fifth Fleet areas of responsibility with personnel from Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 49 embarked. The deployment included maritime security operations, regional exercises, and support for Operation Inherent Resolve, the American-led military campaign against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.

On June 11, 2017, LAKE ERIE arrived at Colombo, Sri Lanka, to support humanitarian assistance operations following severe monsoon flooding and landslides. The disaster had caused widespread damage to homes, transportation infrastructure, and agricultural areas, displacing thousands of people. More than 400 sailors from LAKE ERIE participated in relief efforts alongside Sri Lankan military personnel and civilian authorities.

The sailors helped remove mud and debris, repair damaged facilities, restore access to essential infrastructure, and reconstruct sections of a flood-control levee. Working with Sri Lankan personnel and relief organizations, American forces also supported efforts to restore clean water supplies and assist affected communities. LAKE ERIE's personnel completed their relief mission on June 17, 2017, after which the cruiser resumed her deployment.

During the remainder of the deployment, LAKE ERIE operated in the Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf regions. Her assignments included maritime security patrols, air-defense operations, and support for coalition military activities. Port visits and logistics stops included Singapore; Colombo, Sri Lanka; Abu Dhabi and Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Manama, Bahrain; Hamad, Qatar; Subic Bay, Philippines; and Guam. On November 30, 2017, LAKE ERIE arrived at Pearl Harbor during the return transit across the Pacific. She subsequently departed Hawaii and returned to Naval Base San Diego on December 10, completing her seven-month deployment.

During 2018, LAKE ERIE conducted maintenance, training, and operational preparations in the Southern California operating areas. The cruiser continued maintaining her air-defense and ballistic missile defense qualifications while preparing for another overseas deployment.

In 2019, LAKE ERIE deployed to the Western Pacific for operations in the U.S. Seventh Fleet area of responsibility. During the deployment, she supported the multinational Enforcement Coordination Cell mission, which monitored maritime activity associated with attempts to evade United Nations sanctions against North Korea. These activities included surveillance of vessels suspected of conducting prohibited ship-to-ship transfers and cooperation with allied and partner naval forces. The deployment also included maritime security operations, operational training, and regional engagement activities. Port visits included Yokosuka, Japan, and Busan, South Korea. LAKE ERIE returned to San Diego on November 18, 2019, after traveling approximately 52,000 nautical miles during the deployment.

During August 2020, LAKE ERIE participated in RIMPAC 2020, which was conducted primarily at sea in Hawaiian waters because of restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The exercise took place from August 17 to 31 and involved approximately 22 ships from ten nations. Training activities included combined tactical maneuvering, communications, maritime warfare exercises, and live-fire events. Participating ships conducted their operations with reduced shore-based contact and special health-protection measures.

On November 16, 2020, LAKE ERIE began a Selected Restricted Availability designated SRA 21 at General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego. The extensive maintenance and modernization period included repairs and upgrades to the ship's mechanical, electrical, navigation, and combat systems. The availability lasted more than 22 months, substantially longer than originally anticipated.

On September 8, 2022, LAKE ERIE completed contractor sea trials following the prolonged maintenance period. The ship subsequently completed the remaining availability requirements and began restoring her operational certifications. By the end of September 2022, the shipyard period had concluded, allowing the cruiser to begin preparations for renewed fleet operations.

During 2023, LAKE ERIE conducted training and certification activities in the Southern California and Eastern Pacific operating areas. The cruiser participated in operational preparations and fleet training associated with Carrier Strike Group Nine, centered on USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71).

In January 2024, LAKE ERIE deployed with the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Carrier Strike Group for operations in the Western Pacific. The carrier strike group also included destroyers from Destroyer Squadron 23, including USS WILLIAM P. LAWRENCE (DDG 110), USS DANIEL K. INOUYE (DDG 118), and USS HALSEY (DDG 97).

From January 29 to February 1, 2024, the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Carrier Strike Group participated in a Multi-Large Deck Event in the Philippine Sea with the USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70) Carrier Strike Group and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter destroyer JS ISE (DDH 182). The combined exercise included coordinated air operations, maritime communications, tactical maneuvering, and cross-deck flight operations between participating naval forces. LAKE ERIE was assigned to the USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Carrier Strike Group during this period.

Following the completion of her earlier 2024 operations, LAKE ERIE returned to San Diego and prepared for another deployment. On July 1, 2024, the cruiser departed San Diego for a seven-month independent deployment to the Indo-Pacific region. During this deployment, she operated in the U.S. Third and Seventh Fleet areas of responsibility, conducting maritime security operations, training exercises, and regional presence missions.

The deployment involved cooperation with allied and partner naval forces and included operations in multiple maritime warfare areas. LAKE ERIE continued to maintain air-defense readiness and conducted training in surveillance, communications, and surface warfare while operating across the Western Pacific. On January 30, 2025, LAKE ERIE returned to Naval Base San Diego after completing the seven-month deployment. During the following months, the cruiser underwent maintenance, training, and preparations for further operations.

In late July 2025, LAKE ERIE departed San Diego for what became the final major deployment of her commissioned service. Instead of deploying to the Western Pacific, she proceeded toward the Eastern Pacific, Central America, and the Caribbean in support of U.S. Southern Command maritime operations. On August 29, 2025, LAKE ERIE transited the Panama Canal from the Pacific Ocean into the Caribbean Sea. During the following weeks, she operated with American naval forces conducting maritime security and counter-trafficking operations in the region. These included elements of the amphibious ready group centered on USS IWO JIMA (LHD 7), accompanied by USS FORT LAUDERDALE (LPD 28) and USS SAN ANTONIO (LPD 17).

On September 4, 2025, LAKE ERIE conducted a replenishment at sea with USNS JOSHUA HUMPHREYS (T-AO 188) in the Caribbean. USS FORT LAUDERDALE also participated in the replenishment evolution. On September 19, LAKE ERIE conducted another underway replenishment with USNS JOSHUA HUMPHREYS while operating alongside USS IWO JIMA.

During the closing months of 2025, LAKE ERIE remained in the Caribbean, where American naval forces expanded their maritime security and counter-trafficking operations. The cruiser's deployment became part of Operation Southern Spear, a U.S. Southern Command-led operation focused on countering illicit maritime activity and supporting enforcement measures against vessels associated with illegal trafficking and sanctioned oil shipments.

LAKE ERIE served as Integrated Air and Missile Defense Commander for the deployed force and also performed the duties of Regional Air Defense Commander for U.S. Air Forces Southern. These assignments involved coordinating the regional air-defense picture, monitoring air activity, and supporting the command-and-control requirements of joint military operations in the Caribbean.

On January 7, 2026, LAKE ERIE participated in the interdiction of the motor tanker M/T SOPHIA in international waters in the Caribbean. The cruiser carried U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment 107, whose personnel supported the boarding and interdiction operation. American authorities identified SOPHIA as a stateless, sanctioned tanker suspected of involvement in illicit maritime activity. The operation was completed without a reported armed confrontation, and the vessel was subsequently placed under Coast Guard control for further disposition.

LAKE ERIE continued operating in the Caribbean during the spring of 2026. On March 11, she visited Ponce, Puerto Rico. On March 21, the crew conducted a live-fire exercise with the ship's Phalanx Close-In Weapon System. Four days later, on March 25, LAKE ERIE conducted a replenishment at sea with USNS ROBERT E. PEARY (T-AKE 5), while USS IWO JIMA operated alongside.

On March 30, 2026, LAKE ERIE conducted small-boat operations, followed by damage-control training on April 1. On April 9, the cruiser again replenished from USNS ROBERT E. PEARY, this time with USS SAN ANTONIO operating alongside during the evolution. During May 2026, LAKE ERIE continued operations with USS IWO JIMA and other American naval units in the Caribbean. On May 23, the two ships operated off Venezuela during a visit by General Francis L. Donovan, Commander of U.S. Southern Command. LAKE ERIE subsequently continued her regional duties after elements of the amphibious force began returning to the United States.

During the deployment, LAKE ERIE's command-and-control and maritime security operations contributed to activities that the Navy reported had resulted in the seizure or disruption of more than 2,900 pounds of narcotics. The cruiser also supported operations directed against vessels suspected of involvement in illicit oil shipments and sanctions violations. On June 27, 2026, LAKE ERIE returned to Naval Base San Diego after approximately eleven months of operations in the U.S. Fourth Fleet area of responsibility. Capt. Drew A. Borovies was the ship's commanding officer. The arrival marked the completion of the cruiser's final operational deployment.

Following her return to San Diego, LAKE ERIE began preparations for inactivation and retirement. These activities included administrative processing, the transfer of personnel, and preparations for the removal or preservation of equipment. On September 25, 2026, LAKE ERIE held her decommissioning ceremony at Naval Base San Diego, concluding more than 33 years since her commissioning on July 24, 1993. Capt. Drew A. Borovies, the ship's final commanding officer, addressed the assembled crew and guests. Retired Rear Adm. Randall Hendrickson served as guest of honor and presented the crew with the Battle Efficiency Award during the ceremony. USS LAKE ERIE was officially decommissioned on September 30, 2026, with the cruiser designated for retention as a logistics support asset following her removal from active service.

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Homeports of USS LAKE ERIE:

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About the Cruiser's Name, about the Battle of Lake Erie:

At daybreak on September 10, 1813, Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry's lookout sighted Captain H. Barclay's fleet of six vessels northwest of Put-in-Bay, Ohio. With the American Fleet on the lake, the British supply line was cut, and Barclay had to fight or abandon Fort Malden and all the Northwest.

When preparing for the battle, both Commanders had two critical factors to consider: guns and the wind. Captain Barclay was armed with mostly long guns; Commodore Perry used mostly carronades. Carronades needed fewer men, could be loaded and fired faster, and their heavier caliber gave Perry a 2-1 firepower advantage at close range, but they had less than half the range of long guns. To use his advantage, Perry would need the 'weather gauge', that is, have the wind at his back so he could choose the distance of battle. Perry's plan was for his two brigs LAWRENCE and NIAGARA to engage the two largest British ships, the DETROIT and the QUEEN CHARLOTTE. Barclay's strategy was to soften up the American brigs with his longer guns before Perry could get close enough to use his carronades.

When the nine American ships sailed from Put-in-Bay at 7:00 a.m., the wind advantage was with the British. Perry maneuvered his fleet, but was unable to gain the weather gauge. At almost 10:00 a.m., he decided to engage the enemy when the wind suddenly shifted to his favor. The British furled sails, hove to, and prepared to fight in line of battle.

Just before the battle opened, Perry hoisted his battle flag to the topmast. It was a large blue banner with the crudely inscribed words 'DONT GIVE UP THE SHIP'. These were the dying words of his friend, Captain James Lawrence, who was killed in battle in June, and for whom Perry's flagship was named. The DETROIT opened the battle at approximately 11:45 a.m. At 12:30, when Perry opened fire, he thought he had the advantage, but Jesse D. Elliot, Commanding Officer of the NIAGARA, mysteriously kept his ship out of the battle. The now unchallenged QUEEN CHARLOTTE also pounded the LAWRENCE, and by 2:30, four of every five men on the ship were killed or wounded, and all of her guns were out of action. Perry took a small boat to the undamaged NIAGARA and sailed toward the British line. The DETROIT and the QUEEN CHARLOTTE were badly damaged by American carronades. Barclay was wounded and every other British commander was killed or wounded. When they saw NIAGARA coming, the DETROIT and QUEEN CHARLOTTE tried to maneuver into better firing positions, rammed and locked together. Perry broke through the British line, raking the ships on both sides with heavy guns. It was over in only 15 minutes; the British struck their colors.

Following the battle, Perry sent his famous message: "We have met the enemy and they are ours."

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USS LAKE ERIE Image Gallery:

The photo below was taken by me and shows the LAKE ERIE at Pearl Harbor, Hi., on March 14, 2008.

The photos below were taken by me and show the LAKE ERIE at Pearl Harbor, Hi., on March 8, 2012.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the LAKE ERIE at BAE Systems San Diego Ship Repair during her Extended Dry-docking Selected Restricted Availability. The photos were taken on December 27, 2014.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the LAKE ERIE at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., on October 2, 2015.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the LAKE ERIE at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., on April 18, 2016.

The photo below was taken by Sebastian Thoma and shows the LAKE ERIE at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., on December 20, 2016.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the LAKE ERIE at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., on December 29 and 30, 2017.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the LAKE ERIE at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., on September 28, 2018.

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the LAKE ERIE at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., on March 2, 2019.

The photo below was taken by Sebastian Thoma and shows the LAKE ERIE at the NASSCO Shipyard San Diego, Calif., on November 28, 2021. LAKE ERIE entered the shipyard on November 16, 2020, for a Selected Restricted Availability (SRA).

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the LAKE ERIE at the NASSCO Shipyard San Diego, Calif., on December 28, 2021. LAKE ERIE entered the shipyard on November 16, 2020, for a Selected Restricted Availability (SRA).

The photos below were taken by Michael Jenning and show the LAKE ERIE at Naval Base San Diego, Calif., on October 10, 2022.

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