USS O'Brien (DD 975)

- decommissioned -
- sunk as a target -

USS O'BRIEN was the 13^th SPRUANCE-class destroyer and the fifth ship in the Navy named in honor of Jeremiah O'Brien, who commanded the colonial sloop UNITY during the capture of the British armed schooner MARGARETTA at Machias, Maine, on June 12, 1775. USS O'BRIEN was last homeported in Yokosuka, Japan. Both decommissioned and stricken from the Navy list on September 24, 2004, O'BRIEN spent the following months berthed at the Inactive Ships On-site Maintenance Office, Pearl Harbor, HI., until she was finally sunk as a target off Hawaii on February 9, 2006.

General Characteristics:	Awarded: January 26, 1972
	Keel laid: May 9, 1975
	Launched: July 8, 1976
	Commissioned: December 3, 1977
	Decommissioned: September 24, 2004
	Builder: Ingalls Shipbuilding, West Bank, Pascagoula, Miss.
	Propulsion system: four General Electric LM 2500 gas turbine engines
	Propellers: two
	Blades on each Propeller: five
	Length: 564.3 feet (172 meters)
	Beam: 55.1 feet (16.8 meters)
	Draft: 28.9 feet (8.8 meters)
	Displacement: approx. 9,200 tons full load
	Speed: 30+ knots
	Aircraft: one SH-60B Seahawk (LAMPS 3)
	Armament: two Mk 45 5-inch/54 caliber lightweight guns, one Mk 41 VLS for Tomahawk and ASROC missiles, Mk 46 torpedoes (two triple tube mounts), Harpoon missile launchers, one Sea Sparrow launcher, two 20mm Phalanx CIWS
	Crew: approx. 340

go to the end of the page

Crew List:

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

Click here to view the list.

go to the end of the page

Click here to see which USS O'BRIEN memorabilia are currently for sale on ebay.

go to the end of the page

USS O'BRIEN Cruise Books:

go to the end of the page

About the Ship's Coat of Arms:

USS O'BRIEN's official crest, symbolizes the rich tradition of courage and determination initiated by the ship's namesake, Captain Jeremiah O'Brien, and continued by those ships that proudly bore his name.

The golden pile and its associated elements are resplendent in symbolism. The pile, in conjunction with the wavy bars, represents a ship at sea, symbolic of the grand tradition of the US Navy. Taken by itself, the pile also represents the Roman numeral "V" equaling the total number of ships, including DD 975, to be honored with the name of "O'Brien". The shamrock centered at the top of the pile alludes to Jeremiah O'Brien's Irish ancestry and the arms of the previous O'BRIEN (DD 725). The crossed nautical tridents overlapped by a single cannon dedicates the first naval battle of the American Revolution in which Jeremiah O'Brien and his men defeated the British warship, MARGARETTA. O'Brien and his men, armed with only limited muskets, axes, and pitchforks (represented on the crest by the crossed tridents) boarded the MARGARETTA and defeated an enemy armed with muskets, grenades, and cannons.

The battle took place at Machias, ME. The state of Maine is symbolized by the pine trees on either side of the cannon. The ship's motto "Loyalty, Unity, Freedom" describes Captain O'Brien's contribution to the American Revolution.

go to the end of the page

About the Ship's Name, about Jeremiah O'Brien:

In commemoration of the nation's bicentennial, the U.S. Navy has named the O'BRIEN in honor of Jeremiah O'Brien (c. 1744-1818), an American-Irishman from Machias, Maine, who led the first naval battle of the American Revolution on June 12, 1775. When news of the Battles of Lexington and Concord reached Machias, its citizens, raised a liberty pole to signal their support. This symbol of defiance against the Crown prompted the captain of the British warship MARGARETTA to order the pole removed. Greatly angered by this mandate, plus the presence of the warship in their harbor, the townspeople became hostile. Failing in their first plan to capture the ship's officers attending church services, a group of forty colonists, including Jeremiah and his five brothers, armed themselves with pitchforks, axes and fowling pieces and commandeered the coastal sloop UNITY. Electing Jeremiah their captain, the motley crew set out in pursuit of the now fleeing MARGARETTA. In a naval engagement recognized today as the "Lexington of the Sea," Captain O'Brien and his rebel crew in UNITY out-maneuvered and captured the heavier armed MARGARETTA following an hour-long bloody skirmish and returned it to Machias as their prize. This historical naval battle led to the creation of the U.S. Navy by the Continental Congress.

go to the end of the page

History of USS O'BRIEN:

USS O'BRIEN was laid down on May 9, 1975, at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula, Mississippi, launched on July 8, 1976, and christened on July 17, 1976. Sponsored by Mrs. Elizabeth B. Bradford, a great-great-grandniece of Captain Jeremiah O'Brien, the thirteenth SPRUANCE-class destroyer was commissioned at Pascagoula on December 3, 1977, with Commander James J. Mullen in command.

Following commissioning, O'BRIEN joined the Pacific Fleet and established her first homeport at San Diego, California. During 1978, the destroyer completed her initial shakedown and operational training, including propulsion plant examinations, combat systems testing, antisubmarine warfare exercises and qualifications involving her 5-inch guns and NATO Sea Sparrow missile system. The ship also conducted helicopter operations and training with other Pacific Fleet units in the Southern California operating areas.

O'BRIEN continued operational training during 1979, preparing for her first overseas deployment. Her assignments included carrier escort exercises, antisubmarine warfare training, weapons qualifications and underway replenishment operations. The destroyer's primary mission was the protection of carrier battle groups against submarine threats, although her Harpoon antiship missiles, naval guns and air defense equipment also provided surface warfare and defensive capabilities.

During the spring of 1980, O'BRIEN completed final preparations for her first Western Pacific deployment. Departing San Diego in May, she proceeded across the Pacific Ocean, visiting Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, before continuing toward the western Pacific and Indian Ocean. The deployment took place during the Iranian hostage crisis, when American naval forces were maintaining an increased presence in the northern Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea following the seizure of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran in November 1979.

On June 23, 1980, O'BRIEN crossed the equator while proceeding toward her assigned operating area in the Indian Ocean. The event was marked by the traditional Crossing the Line ceremony for crew members who had not previously crossed the equator. During the deployment, O'BRIEN conducted surveillance, carrier screening and antisubmarine warfare operations in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea. Her assignments included radar picket and plane-guard duties in support of American naval units operating in the region. The ship maintained extended periods at sea, supported by underway replenishments from fleet oilers and logistical facilities in the Indian Ocean.

The deployment included visits to Diego Garcia in the Chagos Archipelago, Colombo, Sri Lanka, Singapore and Subic Bay, Philippines. Following Iraq's invasion of Iran in September 1980, American naval forces continued monitoring the developing conflict and its potential effects on commercial shipping and the security of the Persian Gulf. O'BRIEN completed her first deployment and returned to San Diego during the latter part of 1980.

On November 26, 1980, Commander Donald R. Hess relieved Commander James J. Mullen as commanding officer. Following post-deployment leave and maintenance, O'BRIEN resumed training in Southern California waters, conducting exercises and inspections in preparation for another Western Pacific deployment.

During October 1981, O'BRIEN departed San Diego for her second Western Pacific and Indian Ocean deployment. The destroyer proceeded across the Pacific with other American naval units and arrived at Subic Bay, Philippines, on October 17. Following the port visit, she continued toward the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea, where American naval forces maintained a presence during the Iran-Iraq War. During the deployment, O'BRIEN conducted carrier screening, radar surveillance, plane-guard and antisubmarine warfare operations. Her assignments involved extended periods at sea in support of Seventh Fleet units, together with logistical and liberty visits to ports in the western Pacific and Indian Ocean. The destroyer remained assigned to these operations through the early months of 1982 before beginning the return voyage across the Pacific.

O'BRIEN returned to Southern California during May 1982 and subsequently entered a maintenance and training period. The ship underwent inspections and repairs to her hull, propulsion machinery and combat systems following the extended deployment. On November 12, 1982, Commander Thomas E. Blount Jr. relieved Commander Donald R. Hess as commanding officer. During the latter part of 1982 and throughout 1983, O'BRIEN underwent maintenance and modernization work on the West Coast. The ship subsequently returned to sea for machinery trials, combat systems testing and operational training intended to restore full readiness for another overseas assignment.

During the second half of 1983, O'BRIEN conducted weapons qualifications, helicopter operations and antisubmarine warfare exercises in the eastern Pacific. Following completion of her pre-deployment training, the destroyer prepared for a third Western Pacific and Indian Ocean deployment.

On January 13, 1984, O'BRIEN departed San Diego for another six-month deployment to the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean. The voyage included extended operations with Seventh Fleet units, conducting surveillance, carrier screening and antisubmarine warfare missions. American naval forces continued monitoring developments associated with the Iran-Iraq War, which had increasingly threatened merchant shipping in the Persian Gulf and surrounding waters.

During the deployment, O'BRIEN spent long periods at sea between logistical visits and operational assignments. In addition to her regular naval duties, the destroyer participated in two humanitarian rescue operations involving Vietnamese refugees attempting to escape their country aboard small, unseaworthy vessels. On April 29, 1984, while operating in the Gulf of Thailand, O'BRIEN encountered a vessel carrying Vietnamese refugees and conducted a rescue operation. The ship's crew provided assistance to the people aboard, including food, drinking water and medical care. The rescue took place during a period when thousands of Vietnamese refugees were attempting dangerous sea passages toward Thailand, Malaysia and other Southeast Asian countries.

On May 23, 1984, O'BRIEN carried out a second refugee rescue in the South China Sea. The destroyer again provided assistance to people traveling aboard an unsafe vessel and made arrangements for their transfer to the appropriate authorities. The ship's participation in these humanitarian operations was subsequently recognized with the Humanitarian Service Medal. During the remainder of the deployment, O'BRIEN continued operational assignments in the western Pacific and Indian Ocean, including surveillance and antisubmarine warfare operations. She completed the deployment and returned to San Diego on August 1, 1984, followed by post-deployment leave, maintenance and training.

On February 23, 1985, Commander James G. Prout III relieved Commander Thomas E. Blount Jr. as commanding officer. During 1985, O'BRIEN conducted fleet exercises, weapons qualifications and operational inspections in the eastern Pacific. The ship also prepared for another deployment to the western Pacific, where American naval forces maintained a continuing presence in support of regional security commitments.

In January 1986, O'BRIEN departed San Diego for her fourth Western Pacific deployment. During the deployment, the destroyer participated in combined American and South Korean naval exercises, including Team Spirit 86 and Tae Kwan Do 86-1. The exercises involved American and Republic of Korea naval, air and ground forces conducting coordinated operations intended to test combined defense plans and improve interoperability.

O'BRIEN operated in waters surrounding Japan, the Korean Peninsula and the Philippines, participating in antisubmarine warfare, surface warfare and air defense exercises. Her itinerary included visits to Subic Bay and Manila, Philippines; Okinawa, Sasebo and Yokosuka, Japan; Pohang and Pusan, South Korea; and Hong Kong. The destroyer continued combined training with American and South Korean naval forces during June 1986. She visited Pusan from June 15 to 17 and conducted additional exercises in Korean waters before beginning the return voyage to the United States. O'BRIEN returned to San Diego during the latter part of June and entered a period of post-deployment maintenance and operational training.

During 1987, O'BRIEN received an advanced towed-array sonar system and participated in developmental and operational evaluations of the equipment. The installation improved the destroyer's ability to detect and track submarines at extended ranges through passive acoustic surveillance. Following installation of the equipment, O'BRIEN conducted sonar evaluation operations in the northern Pacific and Bering Sea. The trials involved the collection and analysis of acoustic information under different operating conditions and formed part of the Navy's continuing efforts to improve antisubmarine warfare capabilities against increasingly quiet Soviet submarines.

On June 19, 1987, Commander Robert J. Abbott relieved Commander James G. Prout III as commanding officer. During the latter part of the year, O'BRIEN prepared for another deployment to the Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf, where American naval forces were increasingly involved in protecting international shipping during the Iran-Iraq War.

On July 24, 1987, the United States began Operation Earnest Will, an effort to protect Kuwaiti oil tankers that had been reflagged under American registry. The operation followed repeated attacks against commercial shipping in the Persian Gulf and increasing American concern over Iranian naval activities, including the use of mines and small-boat attacks against merchant vessels.

During her fifth major deployment, O'BRIEN joined the U.S. Navy's Middle East Force and participated in maritime security operations associated with Operation Earnest Will. American warships escorted reflagged tankers through the Persian Gulf and maintained surveillance of Iranian naval forces and merchant traffic in the region. O'BRIEN's assignments included surveillance, escort and surface warfare operations while American forces maintained a naval presence in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. The destroyer operated during a period of frequent attacks against commercial shipping, including incidents involving mines, antiship missiles and armed small boats.

On April 14, 1988, the guided-missile frigate USS SAMUEL B. ROBERTS (FFG 58) struck an Iranian mine in the central Persian Gulf while returning from an escort mission. The explosion caused extensive damage to the frigate and injured ten members of her crew. Despite severe flooding, structural damage and fires, the ship was saved by the damage control efforts of her crew.

The United States subsequently ordered a retaliatory operation against Iranian military facilities used to support attacks on commercial shipping. The operation, designated Praying Mantis, was carried out on April 18, 1988, by three American surface action groups supported by naval aircraft operating from the aircraft carrier USS ENTERPRISE (CVN 65).

O'BRIEN was assigned to Surface Action Group Delta together with USS JOSEPH STRAUSS (DDG 16) and USS JACK WILLIAMS (FFG 24). The group was ordered to patrol near the Strait of Hormuz and engage Iranian warships if they attempted to interfere with the American operation. During the morning of April 18, the other American surface action groups attacked Iranian military installations on the Sassan and Sirri oil platforms. Meanwhile, Surface Action Group Delta continued operating near the Strait of Hormuz, searching for Iranian surface combatants.

In the afternoon, the Iranian frigate SAHAND departed Bandar Abbas and proceeded toward the Strait of Hormuz. American reconnaissance aircraft detected the frigate and monitored her movements. After SAHAND fired upon an American A-6 Intruder aircraft from USS ENTERPRISE, the aircraft attacked the Iranian warship with a Harpoon antiship missile and air-delivered weapons. Additional American aircraft subsequently attacked SAHAND, while Surface Action Group Delta maneuvered toward the engagement area. USS JOSEPH STRAUSS launched a Harpoon missile against the frigate, striking her at approximately the same time as a missile launched by one of the American aircraft. The combined attacks caused extensive fires and damage, leaving SAHAND dead in the water. The frigate subsequently sank after burning for several hours.

O'BRIEN remained with Surface Action Group Delta during the engagement, maintaining surveillance and supporting the group's tactical operations. Although the destroyer participated in the action, the documented Harpoon hit from the surface group was delivered by USS JOSEPH STRAUSS, while the other major strikes against SAHAND were carried out by aircraft from USS ENTERPRISE.

Following Operation Praying Mantis, O'BRIEN continued her assigned Middle East Force duties before completing the deployment and returning to the United States. Her participation in the operation formed part of the largest American surface naval engagement since World War II.

During the latter part of 1988, O'BRIEN entered an extensive modernization and maintenance program. The work included installation of the Mk 41 Vertical Launching System, replacing the original ASROC launcher and providing the capability to employ Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles and Vertical Launch ASROC antisubmarine weapons. The modernization also included improvements to the ship's antisubmarine warfare systems, including integration of the towed-array sonar equipment with the AN/SQQ-89 antisubmarine warfare combat system. Modifications to the aviation facilities supported operations with the SH-60B Seahawk helicopter and the LAMPS Mk III system.

Following completion of the modernization work, O'BRIEN underwent sea trials, weapons certification and operational training. The destroyer's new vertical-launch capabilities considerably expanded her ability to conduct long-range land attacks while retaining her primary antisubmarine warfare mission. On August 5, 1989, Commander Powell A. Fraser Jr. relieved Commander Robert J. Abbott as commanding officer. During the remainder of 1989 and the first half of 1990, O'BRIEN conducted further training, inspections and preparations for another deployment to the Middle East.

On August 2, 1990, Iraqi armed forces invaded Kuwait, prompting the United States and other nations to begin Operation Desert Shield. The United Nations Security Council subsequently imposed economic sanctions against Iraq, and multinational naval forces began enforcing restrictions on maritime trade with Iraqi ports.

During September 1990, O'BRIEN deployed to the Middle East Force and began participating in maritime interception operations in the Persian Gulf. The destroyer monitored commercial shipping, challenged vessels suspected of violating United Nations sanctions and supported the multinational effort to prevent prohibited cargo from entering or leaving Iraq.

On September 16, 1990, O'BRIEN intercepted the Bahamian-flagged tanker DAIMON. The interception was recorded as the 1,000th challenge conducted by the multinational maritime interception force since the operation had begun in August. By this time, coalition naval forces were conducting dozens of challenges and several boarding operations each day.

On October 21, 1990, O'BRIEN encountered the Iraqi merchant vessel AL BAHAR AL ARABI in the Persian Gulf. The vessel had been ordered to proceed to a port not prohibited under the United Nations sanctions regime but failed to comply with the instructions. O'BRIEN subsequently fired warning shots across the ship's bow in an attempt to compel compliance.

The following day, a multinational boarding team that included Navy and Coast Guard personnel from USS REASONER (FF 1063) inspected the Iraqi merchant vessel. The boarding team subsequently allowed the vessel to continue after determining that the prohibited cargo apparently had been discarded. The incident was one of several confrontations involving merchant vessels attempting to evade the maritime embargo during the first months of Desert Shield.

O'BRIEN continued maritime interception and surveillance operations in the Persian Gulf through the latter part of 1990, operating with American and coalition forces enforcing United Nations sanctions against Iraq. The destroyer subsequently completed her Middle East Force assignment and returned to the United States for maintenance and training.

During 1991, O'BRIEN underwent post-deployment maintenance and operational training in the eastern Pacific. Her activities included weapons certifications, antisubmarine warfare exercises and preparations for further overseas assignments. On July 31, Commander Charles S. Hamilton II relieved Commander Powell A. Fraser Jr. as commanding officer.

During December 1991, O'BRIEN participated in counter-narcotics operations off Central and South America, supporting the detection and interception of vessels suspected of transporting illegal drugs. Additional maritime law enforcement operations followed from February through April 1992. During the summer of 1992, O'BRIEN underwent further training and equipment evaluations. The ship participated in testing involving Vertical Launch ASROC and improvements to the AN/SQQ-89 antisubmarine warfare system in the Pacific Missile Range operating area near Kauai, Hawaii.

In August 1992, O'BRIEN began transferring from San Diego to her new forward-deployed assignment in Japan. She joined the U.S. Seventh Fleet's Forward Deployed Naval Forces, establishing Yokosuka as her new homeport during the autumn. The homeport change placed the destroyer within Destroyer Squadron Fifteen, whose ships provided regular surface combatant support to American carrier and amphibious forces operating in the western Pacific.

During 1993, O'BRIEN participated in exercises with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and other allied naval units in the western Pacific. The ship also began a series of deployments to the Middle East, where American naval forces continued enforcing United Nations sanctions against Iraq and supporting Operation Southern Watch.

On June 14, 1993, Commander John T. Blake relieved Commander Charles S. Hamilton II as commanding officer. During the following months, O'BRIEN continued maritime security assignments, carrier escort operations and training with other Seventh Fleet units.

During 1994, O'BRIEN operated from Yokosuka, participating in bilateral exercises and maritime surveillance operations in the western Pacific. Her assignments included combined training with Japanese naval units and preparations for another Middle East Force deployment. The destroyer also completed maintenance and equipment inspections intended to maintain readiness for extended operations away from her homeport.

On February 17, 1995, O'BRIEN departed Yokosuka for another Middle East Force deployment. The destroyer proceeded through the western Pacific and Indian Ocean to the Persian Gulf region, where American naval forces continued maritime interception operations against vessels suspected of violating United Nations sanctions imposed on Iraq. During the deployment, O'BRIEN conducted surveillance and interdiction patrols, monitoring commercial shipping and supporting boarding operations. The ship also carried out air defense and antisubmarine warfare duties in cooperation with other American and coalition naval units operating in the region.

On May 25, 1995, Commander Michael A. LeMieux relieved Commander John T. Blake as commanding officer. Following completion of the Middle East assignment, O'BRIEN returned to Yokosuka and resumed maintenance and combined training with Japanese and other allied naval forces.

During 1996, O'BRIEN maintained a high operational tempo, including another Middle East Force deployment and participation in Exercise RIMPAC 96. The destroyer also operated as part of the American naval presence during a period of renewed tension in the Taiwan Strait. The Taiwan Strait crisis followed Chinese ballistic missile tests and military exercises near Taiwan in March 1996, conducted ahead of the island's first direct presidential election. American naval forces increased their presence in the region, while O'BRIEN and other Seventh Fleet units remained available for assigned contingency operations.

During her Middle East deployment, O'BRIEN continued enforcing the United Nations embargo against Iraq. The destroyer's activities included maritime interception, surveillance and coordination of boarding operations against vessels suspected of transporting prohibited petroleum products and other cargo.

O'BRIEN subsequently participated in RIMPAC 96, the multinational naval exercise conducted in Hawaiian waters. The exercise involved American and allied surface combatants, submarines and aircraft conducting combined surface warfare, antisubmarine warfare, air defense and maritime security training. Following the exercise, O'BRIEN returned to the western Pacific and resumed operations from Yokosuka. Her service during the year was recognized with several awards, including the Battle Efficiency "E" Award and the Meritorious Unit Commendation.

On March 31, 1997, Commander Jan M. van Tol relieved Commander Michael A. LeMieux as commanding officer. During the year, O'BRIEN continued Seventh Fleet operations, including exercises with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and other regional naval forces. The destroyer participated in further deployments and maritime security assignments in the Middle East region, conducting surveillance, maritime interception and carrier escort operations. Her responsibilities included monitoring shipping associated with Iraq and supporting multinational naval operations in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.

During 1998, O'BRIEN operated with American naval forces supporting Operation Southern Watch, the continuing enforcement of the no-fly zone over southern Iraq. The ship conducted surface warfare, surveillance and carrier support operations while American and British aircraft maintained patrols over Iraqi territory.

On May 23, 1998, O'BRIEN conducted an underway replenishment with USS SANTA BARBARA (AE 28) during operations associated with Southern Watch. The replenishment provided the destroyer with supplies necessary to maintain operations away from port. On November 10, 1998, Commander Thomas E. Arnold relieved Commander Jan M. van Tol as commanding officer. During the latter part of the year, O'BRIEN participated in additional combined exercises, including bilateral training with Japanese naval forces.

During 1999, O'BRIEN continued regular Seventh Fleet operations from Yokosuka. The ship participated in combined maritime exercises with the Philippine Navy and in CROCEX 99 with the Royal Australian Navy. These exercises involved tactical maneuvering, communications, antisubmarine warfare and other combined operations intended to improve coordination among allied naval forces. On August 10, 1999, Commander Eric J. Lindenbaum relieved Commander Thomas E. Arnold as commanding officer. O'BRIEN subsequently continued training and maintenance in preparation for further deployments.

During 2000, O'BRIEN conducted an extensive program of exercises and operational assignments throughout the western Pacific. The destroyer participated in combined training with South Korean naval forces, including Counter-Special Operations Forces Exercise, which involved the detection and interception of hostile maritime infiltration forces.

On April 11, 2000, O'BRIEN departed Yokosuka with the carrier USS KITTY HAWK (CV 63) for operations in the western Pacific. The deployment included combined exercises with allied naval forces and visits to regional ports. During May 2000, O'BRIEN participated in Exercise Cobra Gold, the annual combined military exercise involving American and Thai forces. The exercise included naval, air and ground components and emphasized combined operations, command and control procedures and interoperability between the participating forces.

On May 21, O'BRIEN conducted an underway replenishment with USS KITTY HAWK during Cobra Gold operations in the South China Sea. The destroyer subsequently continued Seventh Fleet training and maritime security activities before returning to Yokosuka.

During the latter part of 2000, O'BRIEN participated in further exercises and operational assignments, including activities associated with regional security operations near East Timor. Following the international intervention in East Timor in 1999, multinational forces continued supporting the transition to United Nations administration and maintaining stability in the surrounding region.

During the first half of 2001, O'BRIEN prepared for another deployment to the Persian Gulf. On April 4, Commander Marcus B. Yonehiro relieved Commander Eric J. Lindenbaum as commanding officer.

During the summer, O'BRIEN operated with the U.S. Navy's Middle East Force in support of Maritime Interception Operations against Iraq. The ship conducted surveillance and boarding operations intended to enforce United Nations sanctions and prevent the movement of prohibited cargo through the Persian Gulf.

On September 11, 2001, following the terrorist attacks against the United States, O'BRIEN received orders to depart Bahrain and proceed to the Arabian Sea. The destroyer subsequently joined American naval forces preparing for military operations against al-Qaeda and the Taliban regime in Afghanistan.

The United States began Operation Enduring Freedom on October 7, 2001, conducting air and missile strikes against terrorist training camps, command facilities, air defense installations and other military targets in Afghanistan.

On the evening of October 7, O'BRIEN participated in the opening Tomahawk land-attack missile strikes. Other American ships involved included USS McFAUL (DDG 74), USS JOHN PAUL JONES (DDG 53), USS PHILIPPINE SEA (CG 58), and the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS PROVIDENCE (SSN 719). The British nuclear-powered submarines HMS TRIUMPH and HMS TRAFALGAR also participated in the strikes. The participating American and British warships launched approximately fifty Tomahawk cruise missiles during the initial attacks against targets in Afghanistan. O'BRIEN contributed to this coordinated strike from her assigned operating area, employing her Mk 41 Vertical Launching System. The launches marked the destroyer's participation in the opening combat operations of Enduring Freedom.

Following the initial strikes, O'BRIEN continued operations in the Arabian Sea and surrounding waters, supporting American and coalition naval forces involved in the campaign. Her responsibilities included maritime surveillance and other assigned security operations. The ship subsequently completed her Middle East deployment and returned to Yokosuka for maintenance and training.

During early 2002, O'BRIEN participated in the annual Multi-Sail series of exercises involving the U.S. Seventh Fleet's forward-deployed surface combatants. The training included combined antisubmarine warfare, air defense, surface warfare and tactical maneuvering exercises with ships based at Yokosuka and Sasebo.

On February 7 and 8, 2002, O'BRIEN participated in MISSILEX 02-1, an antiship missile defense exercise conducted under Commander, Task Force Seventy-Five. During the exercise, personnel aboard O'BRIEN prepared and launched BQM-74 target drones to support missile defense training by participating warships.

Nine American naval vessels participated in the exercise, practicing the detection, tracking and engagement of simulated incoming antiship missile threats. The training was intended to improve coordination among the ships' air defense systems and tactical command teams. During the remainder of 2002, O'BRIEN continued operational training and maintenance at Yokosuka. In October, the destroyer conducted additional local exercises before preparing for the annual bilateral exercise with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.

From November 11 to 22, 2002, O'BRIEN participated in ANNUALEX 14G, a large combined naval exercise conducted in waters surrounding Japan. American participants included USS KITTY HAWK, USS JOHN S. McCAIN (DDG 56), and USS CURTIS WILBUR (DDG 54). The exercise involved American and Japanese surface combatants, submarines and aircraft conducting coordinated maritime operations. Training included antisubmarine warfare, air defense, surface warfare and communications exercises intended to improve interoperability between the two navies.

During the winter of 2002-03, O'BRIEN continued Seventh Fleet operations as American naval forces prepared for possible military action against Iraq. Following the breakdown of diplomatic efforts concerning Iraq's compliance with United Nations disarmament requirements, the United States and several allied nations began concentrating military forces in the Persian Gulf region. On December 7, 2002, Commander Gene F. Harr relieved Commander Marcus B. Yonehiro as commanding officer.

During February 2003, O'BRIEN deployed toward the Middle East with units of the battle group centered on USS KITTY HAWK. The carrier group entered the Persian Gulf on February 22, joining American and coalition naval forces preparing for military operations against Iraq. On March 20, 2003, when Operation Iraqi Freedom began, O'BRIEN was assigned to the USS KITTY HAWK battle group. Other ships in the formation included USS CHANCELLORSVILLE (CG 62), USS COWPENS (CG 63), USS JOHN S. McCAIN, USS CUSHING (DD 985), USS GARY (FFG 51), USS VANDEGRIFT (FFG 48), and the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS BREMERTON (SSN 698).

During the operation, aircraft from USS KITTY HAWK conducted strikes against Iraqi military targets while the accompanying surface combatants provided protection and support for the carrier group. O'BRIEN performed assigned escort, surveillance, antisubmarine warfare and defensive operations in the Persian Gulf.

The battle group continued operations during the initial combat phase of Iraqi Freedom, remaining in the Persian Gulf until April 16, 2003. Following completion of its assignment, the formation began the return transit across the Indian Ocean and western Pacific. USS KITTY HAWK returned to Yokosuka on May 6, 2003. O'BRIEN subsequently resumed her regular forward-deployed operations in the western Pacific.

During May 2003, as USS KITTY HAWK entered a maintenance period, several of her escorts continued independent operational assignments. O'BRIEN, USS CURTIS WILBUR, and USS CUSHING were assigned further maritime security and presence operations while the carrier remained unavailable.

During the remainder of 2003, O'BRIEN continued operational training, patrols and maintenance from Yokosuka. The destroyer participated in combined naval exercises and maintained readiness for further assignments in support of the Seventh Fleet. On November 5, 2003, O'BRIEN participated in MISSILEX 04-1, conducting a live firing of a NATO Sea Sparrow surface-to-air missile against a controllable aerial target. The exercise involved the employment of target drones supplied by the ordnance department at Fleet Activities Okinawa and provided training in the ship's short-range air defense capabilities.

During January and February 2004, O'BRIEN participated in further combined training with other Seventh Fleet surface combatants. The exercises included antisubmarine warfare, surface warfare and air defense training in waters surrounding Japan. On February 6, 2004, O'BRIEN completed another Multi-Sail exercise with units of Destroyer Squadron Fifteen. Participating American ships included USS VINCENNES (CG 49), USS JOHN S. McCAIN, USS CURTIS WILBUR, and USS CUSHING.

The exercise also involved support from USS ESSEX (LHD 2), the Military Sealift Command fleet oiler USNS YUKON (T-AO 202), and the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS CITY OF CORPUS CHRISTI (SSN 705).

Training included antisubmarine warfare, torpedo exercises, naval surface fire support and coordinated air defense operations. The exercise concluded with missile-firing events intended to test the participating ships' defensive capabilities.

During the spring of 2004, the U.S. Navy began preparations to replace O'BRIEN in the forward-deployed surface force at Yokosuka. The destroyer was scheduled for decommissioning as part of the Navy's continuing retirement of the SPRUANCE class. The Navy selected USS FITZGERALD (DDG 62), an ARLEIGH BURKE-class guided-missile destroyer then homeported at San Diego, to replace O'BRIEN in Japan. To preserve the experience of personnel familiar with Seventh Fleet operations and the Yokosuka operating environment, the Navy developed a crew exchange arrangement known as Super Swap.

Under the plan, a large number of sailors assigned to O'BRIEN would transfer to USS FITZGERALD, while personnel from USS FITZGERALD would join O'BRIEN to assist with her final voyage and preparations for decommissioning. In May 2004, O'BRIEN departed Yokosuka for the last time and proceeded to San Diego, ending nearly twelve years of forward-deployed service in Japan. The subsequent crew exchange involved 140 O'BRIEN sailors transferring to USS FITZGERALD, while 95 sailors from USS FITZGERALD joined O'BRIEN's decommissioning crew.

The transfer allowed many experienced O'BRIEN sailors to remain in the Forward Deployed Naval Forces when USS FITZGERALD assumed the ship's former duties at Yokosuka. The arrangement also provided O'BRIEN with personnel to complete the final maintenance, equipment removal and administrative requirements associated with decommissioning. On July 31, 2004, Commander John J. McCracken III relieved Commander Gene F. Harr as commanding officer and became O'BRIEN's final commanding officer.

During August and September 2004, O'BRIEN completed preparations for inactivation at Naval Base San Diego. Weapons and sensitive equipment were removed, shipboard machinery and systems were secured, and the crew prepared the destroyer for transfer to the inactive fleet.

On September 24, 2004, USS O'BRIEN was decommissioned during a ceremony at Pier 7, Naval Base San Diego. The ceremony marked the end of nearly twenty-seven years of commissioned service. O'BRIEN was also stricken from the Naval Vessel Register on September 24, 2004. Following decommissioning, the former destroyer was transferred to inactive status at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, pending disposal. Meanwhile, USS FITZGERALD completed preparations for her new forward-deployed assignment and arrived at Yokosuka on September 30, 2004, taking O'BRIEN's place in Destroyer Squadron Fifteen.

During 2005, the former O'BRIEN remained in inactive status in Hawaiian waters while the Navy prepared the ship for use as a target in a live-fire exercise. Equipment and materials were removed, and the ship was prepared for towing to a designated exercise area off Kauai. On February 9, 2006, ex-O'BRIEN was sunk as a target during a combined American and Canadian naval exercise off the Pacific Missile Range Facility near Kauai, Hawaii. Participating forces included USS LAKE ERIE (CG 70), the Canadian frigate HMCS VANCOUVER (FFH 331), and American P-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft.

go to the end of the page

USS O'BRIEN Patch Gallery:

go to the end of the page

USS O'BRIEN Image Gallery:

Click here to view photos from the sinking of USS O'BRIEN on February 9, 2006.

Back to Destroyers list.

Back to ships list.

Back to selection page.

Back to 1^st page.