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About the Ship's Coat of Arms

USS Elliot's COs

Cruise Books and Pamphlets

Special Meeting

About the Name "Elliot"

History of USS Elliot

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USS Elliot (DD 967)

Photo by Andy Wright

USS ELLIOT was the fifth SPRUANCE-class destroyer and the first ship in the Navy named after Lieutenant Commander Arthur James Elliot II, who had been killed in action in South Vietnam on December 29, 1968, while commanding River Squadron 57. Last homeported in San Diego, Calif., USS ELLIOT has completed a total of twelve deployments and visited more than twenty ports of call. Decommissioned on December 2, 2003, ELLIOT subsequently joined the mothball fleet in Pearl Harbor, HI. Stricken from the Navy list on April 6, 2004, ELLIOT was finally sunk as a target in late June 2005, during Talisman Saber 2005, a joint exercise of US and Australian Naval forces in the Coral Sea.

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Crew List:

This section contains the names of sailors who served aboard USS ELLIOT. 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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About the Ship's Coat of Arms:

The coat of arms of USS ELLIOT serves as a heraldic remembrance of the ship's namesake, Lieutenant Commander Arthur James Elliot, II. The red, white, and blue partitions of the shield are patterned after the insignia of Lieutenant Commander Elliot's command, River Squadron FIFTY-SEVEN. Red is the heraldic symbol of courage, zeal, and leadership; white symbolizes integrity; blue represents devotion and perseverance. The unsheathed sword is symbolic of command, and its position on the shield, point downward, is significant of death in combat.

The crest, composed of a mainmast and mainsail, symbolizes the Elliot family's long association with the nautical heritage of their native state of Maine. Generations of the family engaged in the shipbuilding and sailing trades, including Lieutenant Commander Elliot's paternal grandfather and namesake Arthur James Elliot, whose shipbuilding firm launched the last five-masted schooner ever built.

The pine tree emblazoned on the sail is the symbol of the state of Maine.

The ship's motto, "Courage, Honor, Integrity", is representative of those values which characterized Lieutenant Commander Elliot throughout his career.

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USS ELLIOT's Commanding Officers:

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USS ELLIOT Cruise Books and Pamphlets:

• WestPac Cruise Book 1979
• WestPac Cruise Book 1980-81
• WestPac Cruise Book 1985
• WestPac Cruise Book 1987
• WestPac Cruise Book 1995
• Decommissioning Pamphlet

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About a very Special Meeting in 1979:

In the Indian Ocean, ELLIOT became part of Carrier Battle Group 77.4, centered around USS MIDWAY (CV 41). The task group included USS ENGLAND (CG 22), commanded by CAPT Hugh L. Webster, USS CAMDEN (AOE 2), commanded by CAPT Guy A. B. Grafius, USS DOWNES (FF 1070), commanded by CDR Charles O. Johnson, and USS ROBISON (DDG 12), commanded by CDR Dana P. French, Jr. The ships conducted routine operations in the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden, continuing to show a U.S. presence in those waters, when a Soviet naval task group en route to Vladivostok from the Black Sea also entered the Indian Ocean. The Soviet group included the second of the hybrid cruiser-carriers of the KIEV-class, MINSK (CVHG 117), and two KARA-class cruisers, PETROPAVLOVSK and a sister ship, the amphibious assault ship IVAN ROGOV (LPD 132), and the T-AOR BORIS BUTOMA.

On occasion, ELLIOT conducted surveillance of the Soviet ships and observed their operations. This included VTOL operations by MINSK's YAK-36 Forger light aircraft, KA-25 Hormone helicopter flights from MINSK and PETROPAVLOVSK, and several underway replenishments.

The SPRUANCE-class destroyer's inherent capabilities make it an ideal ship for surveillance operations. Endurance and response from the ship's four gas turbine engines make it possible to conduct such operations with minimal notice and with less fuel logistics concerns. Excellent command and control capabilities assures a thorough, carefully controlled effort.

While carefully briefed teams recorded observations from the bridge and signal bridge, the full range of onboard sensors, including seamen with Instamatic cameras, also "observed" the Soviet task group.

ELLIOT’s first encounter with the Soviets occurred while en route to a Seychelle Islands port visit with USS DOWNES. The destroyer found MINSK and BORIS BUTOMA conducting underway alongside refueling. After launching the ship's SH-2F LAMPS helicopter, piloted by LCDR Mike Coumatos, officer-in-charge of HSL-33 Detachment ONE, for aerial observations, ELLIOT took up station astern of MINSK.

When refueling was completed, MINSK launched a Hormone-B helicopter. With the LAMPS and Hormone airborne concurrently, it was observed that the LAMPS helo was noticeably more maneuverable than the Soviet. When LAMPS returned to the destroyer, film taken during the flight was immediately developed in the ship's hobbyshop darkroom and prints were made for study that evening. The photographic results were excellent.

ELLIOT maneuvered in the vicinity of MINSK and the Soviet formation freely and reported Alpha Station on the beam or astern the MINSK for a total of five days. On one occasion, while in position astern, close-in observation of the VTOL Forger aircraft operations were conducted, including direct flights overhead while the aircraft were "on final." The noise was deafening on ELLIOT's signal bridge, but the Soviet flights were well photographed.

Some sharp contrasts between Soviet and American operations were observed. UNREP's took six hours to perform for each Soviet ship, refueled one at a time alongside the oiler. Flight deck operations were generally slow and showed few of the most elementary safety precautions being taken. During flight operations, neither the VTOL Forger nor the Hormone helicopter flew out of visible range of the mother ship.

ELLIOT and MINSK exchange visual signals during the maneuvers. The first was from ELLIOT: "I intend to pass up your starboard side." MINSK replied: "Your signal understood. Don't pass too close." The final exchange was an appropriate "Good luck" from ELLIOT to MINSK and the Soviet ship responded: "Good sailing."

"When we left them," said CDR Clarey, ELLIOT's commanding officer, "PETROPAVLOVSK was following smartly in MINSK's wake, maintaining planeguard station. She wasn't doing that when we arrived. They learned that from ELLIOT."

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About the Ship's Name, about Lieutenant Commander Arthur J. Elliot:

Lieutenant Commander Arthur James Elliot II was born on April 9, 1933, in Rockland, Maine, and grew up in nearby Thomaston. His family had longstanding ties to the sea and shipbuilding. After graduating from Thomaston High School in 1950, he attended Gorham State Teachers College, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial arts in 1955. He subsequently taught at a high school in Augusta, Maine, before entering the U.S. Navy's Officer Candidate School at Newport, Rhode Island, in June 1956.

Elliot was commissioned an ensign on October 12, 1956, and received his first sea assignment aboard USS LYMAN K. SWENSON (DD 729). During nearly three years aboard the destroyer, he served in several capacities, including antisubmarine warfare officer, gunnery officer, damage control officer, and electrical officer. He temporarily left active duty in August 1959 to resume teaching but remained in the Naval Reserve.

Returning to active duty on May 5, 1960, Elliot was assigned to the guided-missile cruiser USS LITTLE ROCK (CLG 4), serving in the Mediterranean with the Sixth Fleet. In July 1962, he became aide and flag lieutenant to senior officers of the Pacific Fleet's Service Force at Pearl Harbor. In September 1965, he reported aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS JOHN KING (DDG 3), where he served as operations officer and was promoted to lieutenant commander.

In January 1968, Elliot volunteered for duty in Vietnam and assumed command of River Squadron 57, a unit of Patrol Boat, River (PBR) craft operating in the Mekong Delta. His squadron conducted river patrols, interdiction missions, and operations intended to prevent the movement of enemy troops, weapons, and supplies through South Vietnam's extensive inland waterways. These missions formed part of the Navy's riverine warfare effort, including operations associated with the SEALORDS campaign.

On December 29, 1968, Elliot was leading his squadron during an interdiction operation on the Vam Co Dong River near the Cambodian border when his patrol boats came under heavy enemy fire. He coordinated suppressive fire and personally maneuvered his boat to provide covering fire for other units attempting to escape the ambush. During the engagement, his boat was struck by enemy rocket fire, and Elliot was mortally wounded. He was 35 years old.

For his actions during the engagement, Elliot was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat "V" for valor. His other decorations included the Legion of Merit, Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, and the National Order of Vietnam, Fifth Class.

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History of USS ELLIOT:

USS ELLIOT was laid down on October 15, 1973, by Ingalls Shipbuilding at Pascagoula, Mississippi. She was launched on December 19, 1974, and christened on January 18, 1975, by Mrs. Albert B. Elliot, mother of Lieutenant Commander Arthur James Elliot II, for whom the ship was named. The destroyer was commissioned at Pascagoula on January 22, 1977, with Commander Donald L. Gurke in command. Former Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt Jr., under whom Lieutenant Commander Elliot had served in Vietnam, attended the commissioning ceremony.

ELLIOT was designed primarily for antisubmarine warfare and was powered by four General Electric LM2500 gas turbines driving two shafts. Her original weapons installation included two 5-inch/54 caliber Mk 45 guns, an ASROC antisubmarine rocket launcher, and Mk 46 antisubmarine torpedoes. The destroyer also had facilities for operating an SH-2F Seasprite helicopter equipped with the Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System (LAMPS). Additional missile systems and electronic equipment were installed during her early years of service, while a subsequent modernization gave the ship a Vertical Launching System capable of firing Tomahawk cruise missiles and Vertical Launch ASROC weapons.

On January 24, 1977, ELLIOT departed Pascagoula on her maiden voyage to the Pacific Fleet. She transited the Panama Canal and proceeded to her new homeport of San Diego, California, where she joined Destroyer Squadron Nine. Following arrival, the destroyer completed approximately five weeks of shakedown training and subsequently conducted engineering trials, weapons testing, and operational evaluations intended to establish the readiness of the new SPRUANCE-class ship.

From June 20 to 29, 1977, ELLIOT participated in Combat System Exercise 1-77 and Readiness Exercise 4-77. The exercises involved a simulated war-at-sea environment with numerous American surface ships, submarines, and aircraft. They tested coordinated antisubmarine, antiair, and surface warfare procedures, including the composite warfare commander concept. ELLIOT operated with other Pacific Fleet units while her crew gained experience in the employment of the ship's combat systems.

On September 24, 1977, ELLIOT entered Long Beach Naval Shipyard for an extended restricted availability. The principal modifications included installation of the NATO Sea Sparrow missile system, Harpoon antiship missiles, satellite communications equipment, and alterations to the helicopter flight deck. The work substantially expanded her offensive and defensive capabilities and improved the integration of the ship's electronic systems. The availability continued into April 1978. ELLIOT departed Long Beach Naval Shipyard for sea trials on April 14 and subsequently proceeded to Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach for an ammunition loadout. She returned to San Diego on April 19. From May 15 to 17, the destroyer conducted naval gunfire support exercises off San Clemente Island, successfully completing the required evaluations of her 5-inch guns and Mk 86 fire-control system.

From May 18 to 24, 1978, ELLIOT conducted NATO Sea Sparrow missile tests, firing two telemetry-configured missiles against MQM-74 target drones. Both shots were evaluated as successful engagements. Additional testing followed from June 5 to 9, including Harpoon missile certification and the firing of a Harpoon blast test vehicle. The ship subsequently resumed training and operational evaluations along the California coast.

During October 1978, ELLIOT conducted helicopter qualifications and participated in Composite Training Unit Exercise 1-79 from October 23 to 27. Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 33, Detachment 1, was embarked for the exercise, which included antisubmarine warfare training and exercise torpedo firings. Further fleet exercises followed in November and December, including Readiness Exercise 79 and Fleet Exercise 1-79. On January 22 and 23, 1979, the destroyer successfully completed a Nuclear Weapons Acceptance Inspection.

On February 16, 1979, Commander Stephen S. Clarey relieved Commander Gurke as commanding officer. Five days later, on February 21, ELLIOT departed San Diego on her first overseas deployment, serving as flagship for Destroyer Squadron Thirty-One under Captain John M. Poindexter. She initially operated with Task Group 37.9, centered on the aircraft carrier USS RANGER (CV 61). Other American ships in the group included USS BUCHANAN (DDG 14), USS BROOKE (FFG 1), USS DOWNES (FF 1070), USS CAMDEN (AOE 2), and USS MAUNA KEA (AE 22). The group also operated with Canadian naval units during the Pacific crossing.

ELLIOT arrived at Pearl Harbor on March 2, 1979, and departed three days later. During the subsequent passage westward, the task group conducted exercises with the attack submarine USS LOS ANGELES (SSN 688). On March 16, Soviet Tu-95 Bear reconnaissance aircraft overflew the American formation while ELLIOT was assigned to an antiair warfare picket station. The destroyer reached Subic Bay, Philippines, on March 20 for repairs, replenishment, and preparations for operations in the Indian Ocean.

On March 31, 1979, ELLIOT departed Subic Bay and conducted naval gunfire support training at the Leon Creek range before joining Task Group 77.5 on April 1. The formation included USS RANGER, USS ENGLAND (CG 22), USS ROBISON (DDG 12), USS DOWNES, and USS CAMDEN. On April 5, while ELLIOT was leading the formation through the Strait of Malacca, USS RANGER collided with the merchant tanker FORTUNE. The aircraft carrier subsequently returned to Subic Bay for repairs, while other units continued their assigned operations.

ELLIOT arrived at Diego Garcia on April 12 and remained there until April 16. Following additional operations and another logistical stop at Diego Garcia, she joined Task Group 77.4 in the Indian Ocean, operating with the aircraft carrier USS MIDWAY (CV 41). The formation also included USS ENGLAND, USS ROBISON, USS DOWNES, and USS CAMDEN. The task group's mission included maintaining an American naval presence in the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden and monitoring Soviet naval activity.

During May 1979, ELLIOT conducted surveillance operations against a Soviet naval formation centered on the aviation cruiser MINSK, which was proceeding from the Black Sea toward the Soviet Pacific Fleet. The Soviet group included the KARA-class cruiser PETROPAVLOVSK, another cruiser of the same class, the amphibious assault ship IVAN ROGOV, and the replenishment oiler BORIS BUTOMA. The ships were operating in the Indian Ocean during a period of increasing Soviet naval activity outside the traditional operating areas of the Soviet fleet.

ELLIOT launched her SH-2F Seasprite helicopter to photograph the Soviet formation and subsequently maneuvered near MINSK to observe flight operations, replenishment procedures, and the movements of the accompanying warships. The surveillance continued over several days and included observations of Yak-38 Forger vertical takeoff and landing aircraft and Ka-25 Hormone helicopters. The destroyer's personnel photographed Soviet aircraft operations and documented the formation's replenishment and maneuvering procedures.

The American destroyer maintained surveillance stations alongside and astern of MINSK while its crew recorded the Soviet group's activities. On several occasions, visual signals were exchanged between ELLIOT and the Soviet cruiser. Information obtained during the operation was reported to American naval authorities for evaluation. Following completion of the surveillance assignment, ELLIOT continued operating with the American task group in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean.

From May 8 to 12, 1979, ELLIOT visited Port Victoria in the Seychelles. She subsequently resumed Indian Ocean operations before proceeding eastward and visiting Singapore from June 7 to 11. The destroyer arrived at Subic Bay on June 15 for approximately two weeks of maintenance and replenishment. On July 1, she departed for Hong Kong before returning to operational activities in the western Pacific.

During July 1979, ELLIOT participated in missile and antisurface warfare exercises in waters near Okinawa. On July 10, she departed Subic Bay for MISSILEX 2-79 and ASUWEX 2-79, firing ASROC, torpedo, and NATO Sea Sparrow weapons against designated targets. The exercise included successful torpedo and missile engagements, and ELLIOT also served as a recovery vessel for target drones. Further exercises involved antisubmarine warfare, antiair warfare, and replenishment formations operating under simulated opposition.

During the final portion of the deployment, ELLIOT participated in Exercise Tasmanex 79 near New Zealand. She operated with USS BUCHANAN, USS DOWNES, and units of the British, Australian, and New Zealand navies. The exercise included combined tactical operations and training in the protection of naval formations. ELLIOT also visited Auckland, New Zealand, during the exercise period.

On September 9, 1979, ELLIOT returned to San Diego after completing her first deployment. During the seven-month voyage, she had steamed more than 45,000 nautical miles, spent approximately 195 days at sea, completed 37 underway replenishments, and conducted more than 600 helicopter landings. The ship received the Navy Expeditionary Medal for qualifying operations in the Indian Ocean.

Following post-deployment leave and maintenance, ELLIOT resumed local operations in October 1979. She conducted antisubmarine warfare training with USS GUDGEON (SS 567) on October 25, including an ASROC and an exercise torpedo firing. The destroyer also served as a public visiting ship at San Diego during the final weekend of October and subsequently completed additional weapons training before returning to port on November 2.

During the remainder of 1979 and the first half of 1980, ELLIOT conducted maintenance, inspections, and training. These activities included nuclear weapons safety evaluations and preparations for another Western Pacific deployment. The destroyer subsequently returned to the Seventh Fleet for her second overseas assignment during the latter part of 1980. The second deployment included operations in the western Pacific and Southeast Asia. ELLIOT was assigned to Task Force 75, the Seventh Fleet's Surface Combatant Force, with Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 33, Detachment 8, embarked. Her duties included antisubmarine warfare exercises, maritime surveillance, and combined training with American and allied naval forces.

At the beginning of January 1981, ELLIOT was at Subic Bay, Philippines, completing an upkeep period. She departed on January 5 for a visit to Manila. On January 8, Commander Douglas M. Norton relieved Commander Clarey as commanding officer during the Manila port visit. ELLIOT returned to Subic Bay the following day for additional preparations before resuming operations. From January 14 to 16, 1981, ELLIOT participated in RECONEX 81-2 with personnel from the 3rd Marine Reconnaissance Battalion. Conducted off the western coast of Luzon, the exercise involved simulated reconnaissance landings, nighttime insertion and extraction procedures, and coordination between the destroyer and embarked Marine personnel.

From January 19 to 22, ELLIOT participated in ASWEX 81-3U off the Philippines. Other participating surface units included USS GRAY (FF 1054), USS WHIPPLE (FF 1062), USS LANG (FF 1060), USS JOHN YOUNG (DD 973), USS RAMSEY (FFG 2), and USNS NAVASOTA (T-AO 106). The exercise emphasized shallow-water antisubmarine warfare and the protection of a high-value unit during passage through restricted waters. USS BARBEL (SS 580) and USS GRAYBACK (SS 574) operated as opposing submarines.

On January 23, 1981, ELLIOT experienced a bearing failure in Ship Service Gas Turbine Generator No. 2. Following the casualty, repair personnel at the Naval Ship Repair Facility in Subic Bay assisted the crew in replacing the affected turbine. The work was completed within approximately 48 hours, allowing the destroyer to resume her operating schedule. She subsequently departed for a port visit to Hong Kong on January 27.

During February 1981, ELLIOT participated in Fleet Exercise 1-81 and additional training with American surface and submarine forces. On February 17, she returned to Subic Bay for an upkeep period before beginning Special Warfare Exercise 1-81. The first phase involved naval gunfire support training for American and allied observers, during which the ship fired 369 rounds from her two 5-inch guns over approximately ten hours.

The second phase of Special Warfare Exercise 1-81 involved the insertion and recovery of a detachment from SEAL Team One in a simulated hostile coastal environment. Opposing forces included missile-armed patrol boats. Following completion of the special warfare exercise, ELLIOT participated in ASUWEX 81-1 with USS JOHN YOUNG, USS RAMSEY, USS LANG, USS GRAY, and USS BONEFISH (SS 582). The exercise concentrated on passive targeting procedures for Harpoon antiship missile engagements.

During March 1981, ELLIOT participated in Exercise Team Spirit 81 and associated American-South Korean naval operations. She visited Pusan, South Korea, from March 5 to 7 before joining a nine-ship antisubmarine screening force during amphibious exercises held from March 8 to 14. The operations involved the protection of amphibious ships against simulated submarine threats and coordination between American and South Korean naval units.

After another visit to Pusan on March 15 and 16, ELLIOT proceeded to Yokosuka, Japan, for repairs to the protective coating on her propeller shafts and minor work on the sonar dome. She was drydocked from March 19 to 25 before resuming operations and proceeding toward Southeast Asia. During April 1981, ELLIOT participated in Exercise Sea Siam 81-2 with the Royal Thai Navy and other American naval units. The exercise included naval gunfire support, antipatrol boat tactics, and coordinated antisubmarine warfare operations. While proceeding toward the exercise area on April 21, ELLIOT encountered a boat carrying Vietnamese refugees in the Gulf of Thailand.

During the following eight days, ELLIOT rescued a total of 158 Vietnamese refugees from several small boats. The survivors received food, water, medical attention, and temporary shelter aboard the destroyer before arrangements were made for their transfer to the appropriate authorities. The operation earned the ship recognition through the Humanitarian Service Medal.

On May 5, 1981, while ELLIOT was transiting the San Bernardino Strait in the Philippines, Seaman Recruit Mark J. Salazar was discovered missing. The destroyer and other surface and air units conducted an extensive search, but the missing sailor was not recovered. Following the search, ELLIOT continued the homeward passage, refueling at Subic Bay on May 7 and Guam on May 9. The destroyer subsequently proceeded to Pearl Harbor, where 47 relatives and guests of the crew embarked for the final passage to California. ELLIOT departed Pearl Harbor on May 18 in company with USS JOHN YOUNG and arrived at San Diego on May 23, 1981.

On June 1, 1981, ELLIOT was reassigned to Destroyer Squadron Twenty-One. After completing a short antisubmarine warfare exercise in late June, the ship began preparations for a regular overhaul. Ammunition and missiles were unloaded at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, and equipment requiring repair or refurbishment was removed from the ship. On August 14, 1981, ELLIOT departed San Diego for Todd Pacific Shipyards in Seattle, Washington. Her homeport was temporarily changed to Seattle on August 17, when she entered a regular overhaul. The availability was the first regular overhaul of a SPRUANCE-class destroyer undertaken by a private shipyard. It included major work on machinery, weapons systems, electronics, and the ship's structure. The overhaul continued through the first four months of 1982. During the availability, ELLIOT received improvements to electronic warfare equipment, passive sonar capabilities, and protective arrangements around selected equipment and ammunition spaces. Following completion of dockside trials and sea trials, she departed the shipyard on April 30, 1982, and subsequently returned to operations along the California coast.

On July 1, 1982, ELLIOT was reassigned to Destroyer Squadron Seventeen. On August 19, she entered dry dock at Long Beach Naval Shipyard for replacement of the rubber window on her sonar dome. Further training and inspections followed during the autumn. In December, ELLIOT successfully completed naval gunfire support qualification at the San Clemente Island range and participated in Readiness Exercise 83-1.

During February and March 1983, ELLIOT conducted additional preparations for her third overseas deployment. These included COMPTUEX 83-1 and READIEX 83-3, during which she participated in antisubmarine, surface, and antiair warfare exercises. The training emphasized coordinated operations with other ships and the readiness of her combat systems and engineering plant.

On April 13, 1983, ELLIOT departed San Diego on her third Western Pacific deployment in company with USS BROOKE. Following a brief stop at Pearl Harbor, she conducted a missile firing at the Pacific Missile Range Facility near Kauai on April 24. The destroyer then proceeded to the Philippines to participate in the combined American-Philippine amphibious exercise Balikatan/Tangent Flash. The exercise took place from May 3 to 13, 1983, in waters near Dingalan Bay on the eastern coast of Luzon. ELLIOT operated as part of an antisubmarine screening force protecting the amphibious landing area. On May 7, the embarked commander assumed responsibility for the screening force during an opposed underway replenishment involving USNS NAVASOTA. The destroyer also conducted simulated naval gunfire support during the exercise.

On May 16, 1983, ELLIOT proceeded to the Leon Creek range for naval gunfire support qualification before participating in Exercise Cope Thunder with United States Air Force units. ELLIOT and USS BROOKE acted as simulated targets during antiair warfare training. Following a brief visit to Subic Bay, ELLIOT was ordered to assist in escorting the USS CORAL SEA (CV 43) Battle Group through the South China Sea.

From June 8 to 13, 1983, ELLIOT participated in Exercise Valiant Blitz near Okinawa. The exercise included simulated amphibious landings, naval gunfire support, and screening operations. Later that month, from June 28 to 30, she joined Exercise Cobra Gold in the Gulf of Thailand, operating with the Royal Thai Navy to provide antisubmarine protection for an amphibious task force. During early July 1983, ELLIOT and USS BROOKE participated in Battle Week exercises near Subic Bay. The exercises included simulated antiair and antisubmarine defense of the naval base, passage through a channel cleared by minesweeping helicopters, and over-the-horizon targeting. On July 7, ELLIOT completed another naval gunfire support qualification.

On July 18, 1983, Commander Stephen R. Farrow relieved Commander Norton as commanding officer. During the following weeks, ELLIOT continued operating with Seventh Fleet units in the western Pacific and Southeast Asia. On July 31, 1983, ELLIOT and USNS PASSUMPSIC (T-AO 107) encountered a small boat carrying Vietnamese refugees while proceeding toward Guam. ELLIOT's crew rescued 68 people and provided food, water, medical attention, and temporary accommodation. The refugees were subsequently transferred to the appropriate authorities at Subic Bay. The rescue earned the destroyer additional recognition under the Humanitarian Service Medal.

On August 11, 1983, ELLIOT joined Japanese naval units for ASWEX 83-2J. The exercise was intended to evaluate coordinated antisubmarine warfare procedures between the United States Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. Two days later, Tropical Storm Ben developed near the operating area, forcing cancellation of the exercise and the diversion of participating ships toward Japan.

On September 1, 1983, Korean Air Lines Flight 007 was shot down by Soviet interceptors near Sakhalin Island after entering Soviet airspace. The Boeing 747, operating from New York to Seoul via Anchorage, carried 269 passengers and crew, all of whom were killed. The incident caused an international crisis and prompted extensive search operations by American, Japanese, and Soviet ships and aircraft.

ELLIOT was ordered to proceed to the crash area on four hours' notice. She steamed more than 1,000 nautical miles at high speed and became the first American naval vessel to arrive at the search area. The destroyer subsequently operated with the U.S. Coast Guard cutter MUNRO and USS BADGER (FF 1071), together with Japanese coast guard and fishing vessels. ELLIOT also embarked Commander, Task Force 75, and members of his staff to coordinate the American naval activities in the area. During the search, ELLIOT maintained surveillance of Soviet naval movements while American and Japanese units attempted to locate aircraft wreckage and recover evidence. The operation took place under considerable diplomatic tension, with Soviet forces restricting access to waters near the reported crash position. On September 14, 1983, ELLIOT was relieved by USS STERETT (CG 31) and departed the area.

Following the search assignment, ELLIOT proceeded to Chinhae, South Korea, for another combined naval exercise with the Republic of Korea Navy. The exercise continued through September 21 and included antisubmarine and surface warfare training. On September 22, ELLIOT arrived at Sasebo, Japan, to prepare for Annualex, a major exercise involving American and Japanese naval forces. After participating in Annualex, ELLIOT made a brief visit to Yokosuka before proceeding to Hong Kong, where she remained from October 11 to 14. During the passage toward Hong Kong, the destroyer encountered a surfaced Soviet Foxtrot-class submarine south of Taiwan and maintained surveillance until relieved by a P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft.

On October 27, 1983, ELLIOT participated in Battle Week 84-1 with USS BADGER, operating as part of the opposition force during tactical exercises. Following completion of the deployment, she returned to San Diego on November 18, 1983.

During January 1984, ELLIOT conducted local exercises and prepared for a Selected Repair Availability. On January 27, after unloading ammunition at Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, the destroyer struck a submerged obstruction while leaving the harbor. The impact caused limited damage to the underwater hull and starboard propeller.

On February 2, 1984, ELLIOT began a three-month Selected Repair Availability at San Diego. The work included repairs and refurbishment of electronic equipment, weapons spaces, and engineering systems. Following completion of the availability on April 30, the destroyer proceeded to Todd Shipyards at San Pedro for additional work on the damaged propeller and sonar dome. During the San Pedro availability, ELLIOT became the first active American warship to use the shipyard's large Syncrolift platform. On June 11, she successfully completed a Defense Nuclear Surety Inspection while undergoing repairs. The inspection included evaluation of procedures associated with the ship's ASROC weapons system. In May 1984, ELLIOT had also been reassigned to Destroyer Squadron Five.

From July 31 to August 21, 1984, ELLIOT participated in READIEX 84-4 and Kernel Usher 84-2 in the Southern California operating areas. The exercises included combined antisubmarine warfare operations, surface warfare training, naval gunfire support, and tactical maneuvers. During the antisubmarine warfare exercises, ELLIOT conducted torpedo and ASROC training against USS BLUEBACK (SS 581).

From October 2 to 12, 1984, ELLIOT participated in COMPTUEX 85-1, serving as flagship for the opposing forces during exercises with the USS CONSTELLATION (CV 64) Battle Group. The training involved simulated combat operations against the carrier formation. Following the exercise, ELLIOT proceeded to San Francisco for Fleet Week 1984 before returning to San Diego and completing additional training through the end of the year.

During the first quarter of 1985, ELLIOT conducted antisubmarine warfare and amphibious support exercises. From March 5 to 13, she participated in Kernel Usher 85-2, an exercise involving a simulated amphibious assault and associated surface, air, and submarine operations. Following the exercise, the destroyer temporarily served as flagship for Commander, Destroyer Group One.

From April 10 to 25, 1985, ELLIOT participated in COMPTUEX 85-4 with the USS KITTY HAWK (CV 63) Battle Group. The exercise included antisubmarine warfare training against nuclear-powered submarines, ASROC and torpedo firings, and coordinated tactical operations. The destroyer subsequently completed preparations for another overseas deployment.

On July 10, 1985, ELLIOT departed San Diego on her fourth Western Pacific deployment, initially operating with the battleship battle group centered on USS NEW JERSEY (BB 62). The group reached Pearl Harbor on July 19 and subsequently participated in COMPTUEX 85-5 from July 22 to 27. During the exercise, ELLIOT successfully engaged a target drone with her NATO Sea Sparrow missile system. On August 2, 1985, ELLIOT departed Pearl Harbor with the USS NEW JERSEY Battle Group for an encounter exercise with the USS KITTY HAWK Battle Group. Following several days of tactical operations, ELLIOT detached with USS SIDES (FFG 14) and proceeded to Sasebo, Japan, where she remained from August 17 to 21.

On August 24, 1985, ELLIOT joined units of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force for ASWEX 85-2JA in the Sea of Japan. The exercise concentrated on coordinated antisubmarine warfare procedures. The destroyer returned to Sasebo on August 27, and her stay was extended because of approaching typhoons. She subsequently departed for Yokosuka on September 2 and remained there from September 4 to 13 for maintenance and replenishment.

On September 14, 1985, ELLIOT departed Yokosuka for Chinhae, South Korea, to prepare for a combined antisubmarine warfare exercise with the Republic of Korea Navy. From September 18 to 20, she participated in Tae Kwon Do XLVII and ASWEX 85-4K, during which American and South Korean surface and submarine units conducted tactical training. During the exercise, the submarine USS DARTER (SS 576) collided with the merchant vessel KANSAS GETTY and sustained damage. ELLIOT proceeded to the scene and rendered assistance to the damaged submarine. After completing the response and the associated exercise activities, the destroyer visited Pusan, South Korea, from September 21 to 24.

During the final days of September 1985, ELLIOT participated in RECONEX 85-4 near Okinawa, supporting reconnaissance training conducted by United States Marine Corps personnel. She subsequently proceeded to Yokosuka with USS SIDES, arriving on October 1 to prepare for Annualex 60G. From October 5 to 13, 1985, ELLIOT participated in Annualex 60G with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. The exercise involved coordinated antisubmarine, antiair, and surface warfare operations near Japan. Units of the USS MIDWAY Battle Group also participated during the final phase. Following the exercise, ELLIOT proceeded south toward Subic Bay.

ELLIOT arrived at Subic Bay on October 21, 1985, for an upkeep period that continued until November 2. During the passage from Japan, the destroyer had altered course to avoid a typhoon, transiting through the San Bernardino Strait. Following the maintenance period, ELLIOT participated in Exercise Burongex 86 with missile patrol boats of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces. The exercise included combined tactical maneuvering and communications training and was followed by a brief visit to Brunei.

During November 1985, ELLIOT resumed operations with USS SIDES and units of the Royal Thai Navy for Exercise Sea of Siam 86-1. The training included combined surface warfare and antisubmarine operations with the Thai warships TAPI and PINKLAO. After completing the exercise, ELLIOT continued to Hong Kong and Subic Bay. On December 1, 1985, ELLIOT departed Subic Bay with the USS KITTY HAWK Battle Group for the return passage across the Pacific. During the voyage, she conducted an encounter exercise with USS FIFE (DD 991). The two destroyers subsequently detached from the battle group to intercept USS JOSEPH STRAUSS (DDG 16) during another tactical exercise.

ELLIOT arrived at Pearl Harbor on December 12 and departed again on December 14. During the final passage to California, 48 relatives and guests of crew members embarked for a Tiger Cruise. The destroyer returned to San Diego on December 21, 1985.

During the first half of 1986, ELLIOT conducted training and underwent a Selected Repair Availability that included modifications to her helicopter facilities for LAMPS Mk III operations. The changes prepared the ship to operate the SH-60B Seahawk helicopter and its associated sensors and support equipment. On July 12, Commander Thomas R. Mooney relieved Commander Eugene E. Cragg Jr. as commanding officer. Following completion of the maintenance availability, ELLIOT resumed training along the California coast. In September 1986, she participated in COMPTUEX 86-5 and conducted a towing exercise with USS HALSEY (CG 23) on September 21. Additional training included torpedo firings off San Clemente Island and inspections of her weapons and engineering systems.

On October 11, 1986, ELLIOT arrived at San Francisco for Fleet Week. During November, she participated in READIEX 87-1 and Kernel Usher 87-1 in the Southern California operating areas. The exercises included antiair warfare, antisubmarine warfare, and missile training. On November 17, ELLIOT successfully fired a NATO Sea Sparrow missile during a weapons exercise.

In January 1987, ELLIOT departed San Diego on her fifth Western Pacific deployment. The initial portion of the voyage included operations in the North Pacific and Bering Sea. During the deployment, the destroyer conducted antisubmarine warfare exercises and surveillance operations while operating with American and allied naval forces. ELLIOT subsequently proceeded south into the western Pacific and Southeast Asia. Her assignments included antisubmarine warfare training, maritime surveillance, and exercises with Seventh Fleet units. During operations in the Gulf of Thailand, the ship encountered Vietnamese refugees and assisted in their rescue.

The deployment continued during a period of increasing tension in the Persian Gulf, where the Iran-Iraq War had led to attacks against merchant shipping. On May 17, 1987, the guided-missile frigate USS STARK (FFG 31) was struck by two Iraqi Exocet missiles, killing 37 American sailors. Although ELLIOT was operating in another region, the incident resulted in heightened attention to antiair warfare readiness and shipboard defensive procedures throughout the fleet.

Following completion of her fifth deployment, ELLIOT returned to San Diego and began preparing for a major modernization. The overhaul, conducted during 1988 and 1989, included removal of the original ASROC launcher and installation of a 61-cell Mk 41 Vertical Launching System. The new installation enabled the ship to employ Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles and Vertical Launch ASROC antisubmarine weapons. The modernization also included installation of Phalanx Close-In Weapons Systems, improvements to the NATO Sea Sparrow missile system, a Mk 23 Target Acquisition System, a new tactical air navigation installation, and modifications to other electronic and weapons equipment. The work substantially altered ELLIOT's combat capabilities by providing long-range land-attack capability while retaining her antisubmarine warfare mission.

On October 29, 1988, Commander Timothy W. LaFleur relieved Commander Mooney as commanding officer. Following completion of the modernization, ELLIOT underwent sea trials, weapons inspections, and operational training in preparation for renewed Pacific Fleet service.

On September 9, 1989, ELLIOT departed San Diego to participate in PACEX 89, one of the largest American naval exercises conducted in the Pacific since World War II. The exercise involved major carrier and surface forces operating across the northern Pacific, including the Gulf of Alaska, the Bering Sea, and waters near Japan. During PACEX 89, ELLIOT conducted tactical exercises, antisubmarine warfare training, and coordinated operations with other American and Japanese naval units. The destroyer encountered heavy weather during the northern Pacific phase of the exercise. Following operations in the Sea of Japan and East China Sea, ELLIOT visited Sasebo, Japan, before returning across the Pacific. She arrived at San Diego on November 9, 1989.

On February 1, 1990, ELLIOT departed San Diego on another Western Pacific deployment as part of the battle group centered on the aircraft carrier USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70). The deployment included operations in the western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea. The ship participated in carrier screening, antisubmarine warfare exercises, maritime surveillance, and operations with the Seventh Fleet. During the deployment, ELLIOT visited Pearl Harbor, Pusan, Subic Bay, Singapore, Pattaya Beach, Diego Garcia, Muscat, Fremantle, and Hong Kong. She also participated in Exercise Team Spirit 90 with American and South Korean forces.

On April 20, 1990, while transiting the South China Sea, ELLIOT encountered a small boat carrying 35 Vietnamese refugees. The survivors reported that they had been attacked by pirates and left adrift. The destroyer's crew brought the refugees aboard, provided food, clothing, and medical assistance, and subsequently sank the abandoned boat after determining that it could not be safely used. On April 21, 1990, ELLIOT transferred the refugees to representatives of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees at Singapore. Following the rescue, the destroyer continued her deployment, conducting operations and port visits in the western Pacific and Indian Ocean.

ELLIOT returned to San Diego on August 1, 1990, one day before Iraqi forces invaded Kuwait. On September 9, she entered the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company shipyard for an extended maintenance availability that continued until December 17. The ship remained in the United States during the opening months of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm rather than accompanying the naval forces deployed for the initial fighting.

During the first half of 1991, ELLIOT completed repairs, operational training, and preparations for another deployment. The Gulf War had ended with the liberation of Kuwait in February, but the Persian Gulf remained an area of extensive American and coalition naval activity. Mine-clearing operations, surveillance of commercial shipping, and enforcement of United Nations sanctions against Iraq continued.

On July 31, 1991, ELLIOT departed San Diego on another Western Pacific and Persian Gulf deployment, with Commander, Destroyer Squadron Seventeen, embarked. The voyage included visits to Pearl Harbor, Subic Bay, Phuket, Bahrain, ports in Oman, Abu Dhabi, and Hong Kong. During the deployment, ELLIOT participated in maritime surveillance and escort operations in the Persian Gulf. Her duties included monitoring shipping, maintaining readiness for antiship and antisubmarine warfare, and supporting coalition naval operations following the Gulf War. The ship operated near Kuwait, where destroyed offshore oil facilities, wrecked vessels, and drifting mines remained hazards to navigation.

On October 21, 1991, while operating off Kuwait, ELLIOT received information from the French research vessel LE BERRY concerning a drifting Iraqi LUGM-145 naval mine approximately twelve nautical miles from the port of Mina al-Ahmadi. The destroyer proceeded to the area and maintained surveillance of the mine while arrangements were made for its disposal. Personnel from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit One, Detachment 31, were flown to the scene from Bahrain. With assistance from ELLIOT's embarked helicopter detachment, the EOD team destroyed the mine in a controlled detonation. Following the operation, the destroyer resumed her assigned duties in the Persian Gulf.

During the return voyage, ELLIOT conducted further training and exercises with Seventh Fleet units. On January 1, 1992, she was moored at Alava Wharf, Subic Bay. During the Pacific crossing, the destroyer participated in an encounter exercise against USS GURNARD (SSN 662), employing her AN/SQR-19 towed-array sonar and embarked SH-60B Seahawk helicopter. ELLIOT returned to San Diego on January 20, 1992.

In May 1992, ELLIOT entered Southwest Marine Shipyard at San Diego for a maintenance availability that continued until August. Following completion of repairs, she resumed exercises and operational readiness evaluations. During August, ELLIOT participated in COMPTUEX 92-7T, naval gunfire support qualification, torpedo training, and Total Ship Training Assessment exercises.

On November 16, 1992, ELLIOT departed San Diego with Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 49, Detachment 5, embarked for a five-week counter-narcotics patrol. The mission involved coordination with American Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force units engaged in detecting and monitoring vessels suspected of transporting illegal narcotics. ELLIOT served as a maritime surveillance and coordination platform and transmitted tactical information to authorities ashore. She returned to San Diego on December 21, 1992.

During the first half of 1993, ELLIOT conducted additional training and inspections, including antisubmarine warfare team training, naval gunfire support exercises, and Total Ship Training Assessment evaluations. The ship also participated in the Portland Rose Festival before completing final preparations for another Middle East deployment.

On July 9, 1993, ELLIOT departed San Diego for the Persian Gulf in company with USS RENTZ (FFG 46) and USS CHANDLER (DDG 996). Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 49, Detachment 5, was embarked. During the passage toward Pearl Harbor, the destroyer participated in Middle East Force Exercise 93-3T. At the Pacific Missile Range Facility, ELLIOT served as antisurface warfare commander and coordinated live-fire weapons exercises involving the participating ships. On July 17, 1993, ELLIOT continued westward toward Guam, where she completed a final ammunition loadout. During the passage from Guam to Singapore, the ship encountered severe weather associated with the western Pacific monsoon season. She subsequently completed a five-day upkeep period at Singapore before departing on August 5 and proceeding through the Strait of Malacca toward Phuket, Thailand.

Following the visit to Thailand, ELLIOT continued independently across the Indian Ocean and transited the Strait of Hormuz on August 15, 1993. She subsequently completed a turnover with USS O'BRIEN (DD 975) and assumed responsibilities associated with the American naval presence in the northern Persian Gulf. During a port visit to Bahrain, ELLIOT embarked the staff of Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, and served as flagship for assigned operations. From August 23 to 29, she participated in SHAREM 102 Phase II and AIREM-B-93P off the southern coast of Iran. Other participating units included USS INGRAHAM (FFG 61), USS PASADENA (SSN 752), and the oceanographic survey ship USNS SILAS BENT. ELLIOT served as officer in tactical command during the antisubmarine warfare exercise.

On September 1, 1993, ELLIOT took station in the northern Persian Gulf, where she maintained readiness to conduct Tomahawk missile strikes if ordered. The ship participated in Exercise Nemean Lion 93-3 while her combat information center and strike warfare teams completed contingency missile targeting and command-and-control procedures. The destroyer remained on station until September 6, when she proceeded to Jebel Ali, United Arab Emirates, for a port visit.

ELLIOT departed Jebel Ali on September 15 and returned to the northern Persian Gulf. She continued maintaining Tomahawk strike readiness while the embarked SH-60B Seahawk conducted regular surface surveillance patrols. During these operations, ELLIOT also served as antiair warfare commander and over-the-horizon track coordinator for American naval forces in the northern Persian Gulf, maintaining and distributing tactical information to regional headquarters.

The destroyer remained on station through October 1993 and supported maritime interception operations enforcing United Nations sanctions against Iraq. Commander, Destroyer Squadron Seven, subsequently embarked, and ELLIOT served as flagship for the American naval commander responsible for antisurface warfare and maritime interception operations in the Persian Gulf. On October 29, 1993, while monitoring shipping near the Mina al-Bakr oil terminal, ELLIOT identified and boarded the tug AMETIST to verify compliance with United Nations sanctions. The destroyer continued patrols in the northern Persian Gulf through November 7 before visiting Dubai from November 8 to 12.

Following the Dubai port visit, ELLIOT proceeded to Bahrain to embark additional staff personnel. During the deployment, the ship also conducted communications testing, including a successful evaluation of a super-high-frequency communications installation. She subsequently returned to maritime interception operations in the northern Persian Gulf. On Thanksgiving Day, November 25, 1993, ELLIOT conducted a boarding of the merchant vessel TYPHUS in company with the British frigate HMS CAMPBELTOWN. The operation involved a vessel attempting to proceed toward Iraq and was conducted to determine compliance with United Nations restrictions on shipping.

On November 28, 1993, ELLIOT completed her turnover with USS JOHN YOUNG and departed the Persian Gulf. Although the destroyer had remained prepared to launch Tomahawk missiles during much of the deployment, no missile firing order had been received. She subsequently proceeded across the Indian Ocean, refueled at Diego Garcia on December 5, and visited Fremantle, Australia, before continuing toward Pearl Harbor and the United States.

During 1994, ELLIOT conducted maintenance, inspections, and training from San Diego. The ship continued preparing for operations with the Pacific Fleet and participated in tactical exercises involving antisubmarine warfare, naval gunfire support, and the employment of her Tomahawk missile system.

In February 1995, ELLIOT participated in Chief of Naval Operations Project 251, a Tomahawk weapons evaluation conducted through the Pacific Missile Test Range. During the test, the destroyer launched Tomahawk cruise missiles against targets associated with the China Lake weapons testing facilities in California. The exercise provided an opportunity to evaluate the operation of the ship's vertical launch and strike-control systems.

During 1995, ELLIOT completed another Western Pacific deployment, which included visits to ports in Australia and American Samoa. The ship conducted exercises and training with American and allied naval forces while continuing to develop her antisubmarine, surface warfare, and land-attack capabilities. As part of a reorganization of Pacific Fleet surface forces in 1995, ELLIOT was reassigned to Destroyer Squadron Seven. The reorganization brought surface combatants into new squadron and carrier battle group structures intended to improve operational coordination and readiness.

During 1996, ELLIOT conducted training, maintenance, and port visits along the Pacific coast. Her schedule included visits to Bremerton, Washington; Vancouver and Victoria, British Columbia; San Francisco, California; and Seattle, Washington, where the ship participated in the annual Seafair celebrations.

In March 1996, ELLIOT participated in Pacific Joint Task Force Exercise 96-1 off Southern California. The exercise included joint maritime and air operations, search-and-rescue training, simulated amphibious landings, and tests of sensors and communications equipment intended to improve the coordination of American naval and air forces operating near the coast.

During late 1996 and early 1997, ELLIOT underwent an Extended Drydocking Selected Restricted Availability at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in San Diego. The contract included repairs and modifications to hull, machinery, electrical, and combat systems. Following completion of the availability, the destroyer resumed sea trials and operational training.

From August 6 to 10, 1997, ELLIOT participated in Seattle's Seafair celebrations with other Pacific Fleet units, including USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN 72). The ship subsequently returned to Southern California for additional training exercises. In September 1997, ELLIOT participated in Exercise Teamwork North 97, an antisubmarine warfare exercise conducted off Southern California. The exercise involved USS VALLEY FORGE (CG 50), USS JARRETT (FFG 33), and the attack submarine USS SALT LAKE CITY (SSN 716), together with the Chilean diesel-electric submarine SIMPSON. The exercise evaluated detection and tracking of conventional submarines, protection of high-value naval units, and coordinated use of surface ships, aircraft, and submarine sensors. Participating ships conducted barrier transit exercises, simulated antisubmarine engagements, and torpedo training. ELLIOT subsequently completed additional preparations for another carrier battle group deployment.

From April 13 to 24, 1998, ELLIOT participated in Pacific Joint Task Force Exercise 98-1 off Southern California. The exercise involved more than 25 ships and numerous aircraft, including units of the USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN Battle Group and the amphibious ready group centered on USS ESSEX (LHD 2). Participating forces conducted maritime interception operations, simulated noncombatant evacuations, air strikes, theater ballistic missile defense training, and amphibious landing operations.

On June 17, 1998, ELLIOT departed San Diego for a deployment with the USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN Battle Group. The destroyer proceeded across the Pacific and Indian Oceans and entered the Persian Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz on July 24. The battle group subsequently relieved the USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74) Battle Group and assumed responsibility for continuing American naval operations in the region.

During the deployment, ELLIOT participated in maritime interception operations associated with United Nations sanctions against Iraq. She also provided surface and antisubmarine warfare protection for the carrier battle group while aircraft from USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN conducted patrols in support of Operation Southern Watch. On August 7, 1998, terrorists associated with al-Qaeda detonated bombs at the American embassies in Nairobi, Kenya, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, killing hundreds of people and injuring thousands. The United States subsequently identified terrorist training facilities in Afghanistan and a suspected chemical weapons facility in Sudan as targets for retaliatory military action.

President Bill Clinton authorized Operation Infinite Reach, also known as Resolute Response, to conduct Tomahawk missile strikes against the selected targets. American naval forces in the Arabian Sea and Red Sea were directed to prepare for coordinated missile launches on August 20, 1998. On August 20, ELLIOT participated in the missile strikes against the Zhawar Kili al-Badr terrorist training complex near Khost, Afghanistan. Operating in the North Arabian Sea with units of the USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN Battle Group, the destroyer launched Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles as part of a coordinated naval strike.

Other participating American warships included the guided-missile cruisers USS COWPENS (CG 63) and USS SHILOH (CG 67), the guided-missile destroyer USS MILIUS (DDG 69), and the attack submarine USS COLUMBIA (SSN 771). The five units launched a combined total of 73 Tomahawk missiles against targets at the training complex in Afghanistan. The broader operation also included strikes against the Al-Shifa facility in Sudan.

Following the missile strikes, ELLIOT continued her deployment with the USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN Battle Group. Her duties included maritime interception operations, surveillance, carrier screening, and exercises with coalition naval forces. The battle group also conducted continuing operations in support of Operation Southern Watch while maintaining readiness for additional contingency missions. The deployment included port visits in the western Pacific, Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Persian Gulf region. Among the ports visited by units of the battle group were Hong Kong, Singapore, ports in Thailand and Australia, Jebel Ali, and Bahrain. ELLIOT completed her deployment and returned to San Diego on December 7, 1998.

During 1999, ELLIOT resumed operations and training along the California coast. The ship underwent maintenance and participated in exercises intended to prepare her combat systems and crew for further deployments. On May 21, Commander Steven P. DesJardins relieved Commander Steven R. Strausser as commanding officer.

During 2000, ELLIOT participated in maritime security and multinational training activities, including Exercise Arabian Gauntlet 2000. The exercise involved American and regional naval forces and concentrated on maritime interception procedures, tactical coordination, and the protection of shipping. The destroyer also continued training in antisubmarine warfare, naval gunfire support, and the employment of her missile systems.

On January 12, 2001, Commander Jerome R. Provencher Jr. relieved Commander DesJardins as commanding officer. During the first half of the year, ELLIOT continued operational training and inspections in preparation for another deployment. In June, the ship completed the principal portion of her interdeployment training cycle and joined the USS JOHN C. STENNIS Battle Group for further exercises.

On June 20, 2001, ELLIOT departed San Diego for a Final Evaluation Period, during which her crew demonstrated readiness in engineering, combat systems, navigation, and damage control. In August, she participated in a Composite Training Unit Exercise with the USS JOHN C. STENNIS Battle Group. The training included simulated Tomahawk launches, antisubmarine warfare, surface warfare, and coordinated operations with the embarked helicopter detachment.

During the summer of 2001, the first permanently assigned female officers reported aboard ELLIOT. The ship's officer accommodations were modified to support mixed-gender berthing arrangements, although the enlisted crew remained male because separate enlisted berthing facilities had not been installed.

Following the terrorist attacks against the United States on September 11, 2001, ELLIOT and other American naval units were placed under heightened security and readiness conditions. The destroyer supported homeland defense requirements associated with Operation Noble Eagle while preparations accelerated for the deployment of the USS JOHN C. STENNIS Battle Group.

From October 30 to November 8, 2001, ELLIOT participated in an accelerated Joint Task Force Exercise. The exercise evaluated the battle group's readiness for combat operations and included air-defense, antisubmarine, surface warfare, and strike warfare training. The deployment schedule had been advanced to support American military operations following the September 11 attacks.

On November 12, 2001, ELLIOT departed San Diego on her final overseas deployment with the USS JOHN C. STENNIS Battle Group. The destroyer carried Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 43, Detachment 6, and proceeded westward across the Pacific. During the transit, the ship conducted additional training and maintained heightened force protection measures. In November 2001, ELLIOT visited Hong Kong before proceeding through the South China Sea. She conducted combined training with the Republic of Singapore Navy and subsequently passed through the Strait of Malacca into the Indian Ocean. The battle group continued toward the Arabian Sea in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. During the initial phase of the deployment in the Fifth Fleet area of operations, ELLIOT operated off Pakistan and supported maritime surveillance and other naval activities associated with the campaign against al-Qaeda and the Taliban in Afghanistan. The destroyer subsequently proceeded through the Strait of Hormuz into the Persian Gulf.

After entering the Persian Gulf, ELLIOT visited Bahrain for voyage repairs, logistical support, and operational briefings. The ship then began maritime interception operations intended to enforce United Nations sanctions against Iraq. Her responsibilities included surveillance of merchant shipping, interrogation of suspect vessels, and boarding operations conducted by specialized teams. In January 2002, ELLIOT assumed duties as flagship for maritime interception operations in the northern Persian Gulf. The ship coordinated surveillance and boarding activities involving American and coalition naval forces. Her responsibilities included identifying suspected smugglers, directing merchant vessels toward inspection areas, and maintaining the tactical picture for forces engaged in enforcing United Nations restrictions.

During the remainder of the deployment, ELLIOT continued maritime interdiction patrols and associated training. The ship employed her embarked helicopter, small boats, and boarding teams to inspect vessels suspected of carrying prohibited cargo. Following completion of the assignment, she began the return voyage across the Indian and Pacific Oceans and returned to San Diego in 2002.

During the latter part of 2002, the Navy began preparing ELLIOT and her crew for participation in the Sea Swap program. The program involved maintaining selected destroyers on station for extended deployments while rotating their crews at overseas ports. The arrangement was intended to reduce the amount of time ships spent transiting between their American homeports and distant operating areas.

ELLIOT's crew was selected to participate in the program aboard USS FLETCHER (DD 992). Although ELLIOT herself was scheduled for decommissioning, her crew continued training in preparation for taking over operational duties aboard USS FLETCHER. The program required extensive planning for personnel transfers, equipment familiarization, crew qualifications, and logistical support. On July 12, 2002, Commander John P. Nolan relieved Commander Provencher as ELLIOT's final commanding officer. During 2003, the destroyer continued preparations for decommissioning while her crew completed training associated with the planned Sea Swap assignment. Equipment and ammunition were removed, machinery systems were secured, and personnel began preparations for transfer to other Navy assignments.

On December 2, 2003, ELLIOT was decommissioned during a ceremony at Pier 10, Naval Station San Diego, after nearly 27 years of commissioned service. The ceremony marked the retirement of one of the Navy's remaining SPRUANCE-class destroyers and the conclusion of the ship's operational career. Following decommissioning, ex-ELLIOT was transferred to inactive status. On April 6, 2004, she was stricken from the Naval Vessel Register. The former destroyer was subsequently selected for use as a target during a live-fire exercise conducted in conjunction with the American-Australian military exercise Talisman Sabre 2005.

During June 2005, ex-ELLIOT was sunk as a target in the Coral Sea off the eastern coast of Australia. The sinking formed part of the live-fire training conducted during Exercise Talisman Sabre, which involved American and Australian naval and air forces. The former guided-missile cruiser ex-USS WILLIAM H. STANDLEY (CG 32) was also sunk as a target during the exercise.

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USS ELLIOT Image Gallery:

The photo below was taken by William Chiu and shows USS ELLIOT at Hong Kong around 1991/1992.

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